Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis lauded convicted rapist Danny Masterson as ‘positive influence’ in pre-sentencing letters
Danny Masterson’s friends including “That ’70s Show” co-stars Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis wrote letters of support for the convicted rapist before he was sentenced to 30 years in prison Thursday.
“As a friend, Danny has been nothing but a positive influence on me,” Kutcher wrote in a letter obtained by The Post.
“He’s an extraordinarily honest and intentional human being.”
Kutcher said he and Masterson, 47, had raised their children together and described his close friend as a positive role model who never descended into Hollywood’s decadent drugs and booze scene.
“Any time that we were to meet someone or interact with someone who was on drugs, or did drugs, he made it clear that that wouldn’t be a good person to be friends with,” Kutcher stated.
The missives were written with the knowledge that Masterson — who was accused at trial of drugging his victims’ drinks — would receive between 15 and 30 years behind bars.
“While I’m aware that the judgement has been cast as guilty on two counts of rape by force and the victims have a great desire for justice, I hope that my testament to his character is taken into consideration in sentencing,” Kutcher stated.
He also asserted that Masterson does not pose a threat to society.
Despite the letter of support, the judge opted to sentence Masterson to the highest possible sentence for the crimes.
Kutcher’s wife, fellow cast member Mila Kunis, echoed her husband’s sentiments.
“Danny’s role as a husband and father to his daughter has been nothing short of extraordinary,” she wrote. “Witnessing his interactions with his daughter has been heartwarming and enlightening.”
Kunis also vouched for his anti-drug stance, and called him a positive influence on those around him.
“In conclusion, I wholeheartedly vouch for Danny Masterson’s exceptional character and the tremendous positive influence he has had on me and the people around him,” she said.
“His dedication to leading a drug-free life and the genuine care he extends to others make him an outstanding role model and friend.”
Masterson’s wife, Bijou Phillips, wrote that his absence from their family will prove devastating.
“We need him more than you can imagine,” she wrote. “I know he has been convicted of serious crimes. But the man I married has only been an extraordinary husband to me and a devoted father to our daughter.”
The actor was sentenced on Thursday to two 15-year prison terms, to be served consecutively.
Masterson was found guilty of the 2003 rapes of two women at his Hollywood-area home.
Both victims testified at trial that he gave them drugged drinks, then violently raped them once they were unconscious.
With reporting by Marjorie Hernandez
