Danny Masterson’s Rape Conviction Upheld, 30-Year+ Sentence Confirmed
A California appeals court upheld Danny Masterson’s rape conviction and 30-years-to-life sentence.
Why it matters: The decision underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding convictions in high-profile criminal cases, setting a precedent for appellate review involving celebrity defendants.
- The appeals court unanimously rejected Masterson’s challenge to trial errors and counsel claims in an 89-page ruling.
- Masterson was convicted in a 2023 retrial after a 2022 deadlocked jury in his first trial.
- His 30-years-to-life sentence includes a parole ineligibility period exceeding 20 years.
- Accusers allege Church of Scientology discouraged reports of assaults, which the church denies.
On October 27, 2026, a California appeals court unanimously upheld actor Danny Masterson's convictions for raping two women in 2003, confirming his prison sentence of 30 years to life. The three-judge panel issued a comprehensive 89-page opinion that dismissed Masterson's claims of trial errors and ineffective assistance of counsel. They also rejected arguments that prosecuting him violated the 10-year statute of limitations, claims of excluded favorable evidence, and allegations of judicial bias related to his religion.
Masterson, 50, known for "That '70s Show," faced a hung jury in his initial 2022 trial but was convicted in a 2023 retrial. He is currently serving his sentence at California Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo, with parole eligibility not possible for over two decades.
The victims, former Church of Scientology members, contend the church discouraged them from reporting the assaults—a claim the church strongly denies. This case has drawn significant public interest due to Masterson's celebrity status and the church's controversial involvement.
Masterson's legal team has announced plans to seek further review by the California Supreme Court, indicating ongoing litigation efforts despite the appellate ruling.
By the numbers:
- 2022 — year of Masterson's first trial ending in a hung jury
- 2023 — year Masterson was convicted in retrial
- 30 years to life — sentence length upheld by appeals court
- 20+ years — minimum time before Masterson is eligible for parole
Yes, but: Masterson’s attorneys have stated they will pursue review by the California Supreme Court, which could affect the finality of the conviction.
What's next: The next potential development is the California Supreme Court's decision whether to accept Masterson's appeal for further review.