In a Los Angeles courtroom, a poignant scene unfolded as actor Danny Masterson, best known for his role in "That '70s Show," was handed a 30-year prison sentence for the rape of two women in the early 2000s. As the gravity of the sentence settled, Masterson turned to his wife, actress Bijou Phillips, and blew her a kiss, a gesture that seemed to encapsulate the weight of the moment and the couple's shared anguish.
Phillips, visibly distraught, held a handkerchief over her face, perhaps to shield her raw emotions from the public eye. The courtroom sketch artist captured this intimate exchange between the convicted actor and his wife. While Masterson maintained a stoic demeanor when the sentence was announced, his subtle gesture towards Phillips spoke volumes.
The actor's ties to the Church of Scientology have been a significant aspect of the case's narrative. In the courtroom, Phillips was surrounded by several members of the Church of Scientology, who were present to offer her support. Masterson has been a devout Scientologist for many years, and his church associates were there to comfort Phillips during this challenging time.
An insider close to the couple revealed the depth of Phillips' emotional turmoil, likening her state to "grieving a death." The source described Phillips as "a shell of who she has been," emphasizing the profound impact of the trial and sentencing on her. The couple's daughter, too, has been at the forefront of Phillips' concerns as she grapples with the reality of her husband's incarceration.
Masterson's conviction in May 2023 came after a mistrial, and he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. As part of his sentence, he will be required to register as a sex offender. However, there's a twist in the tale. Masterson's attorney, Shawn Holley, expressed confidence that the convictions would be overturned. Holley stated that a team of top appellate lawyers has been reviewing the trial transcripts and have identified significant evidentiary and constitutional issues. She believes that errors in the trial led to verdicts unsupported by evidence and remains optimistic about the actor's chances on appeal.
The case has garnered significant media attention, not just because of Masterson's celebrity status but also due to the involvement of the Church of Scientology and the serious nature of the charges. As the legal proceedings continue, the public will be keenly watching for further developments.
