Danny Masterson, a well-known Scientologist who was imprisoned this week for raping two women, was a “role model” to fellow actor Ashton Kutcher, the star told a judge according to a letter that emerged on Friday.
Masterson was convicted to at least 30 years in jail for drugging and sexually assaulting his victims at his swanky Los Angeles home two decades earlier.
In a bid to the sentencing judge, Kutcher — who starred alongside Masterson in the “That ‘70s Show” — said the elder actor had been “nothing but a positive influence” on him.
According to a letter published in US media, Kutcher wrote, “I met Danny Masterson when I was 20 years old in 1998.”
He added that Danis immediately became a friend, dedicated co-worker, and role model to me and has remained as such for 25 years.
“He’s an incredibly honest and purposeful human being. Over a 25-year connection, I don’t ever remember him lying to me. He’s taught me about being direct and facing problems in life and relationships head-on, settling them, and moving ahead.”
Kutcher said he was aware his mate had been uncovered guilty but wanted his character reference to be accepted into account in sentencing.
He added that he does not think he is a harm to the community and carrying his daughter raised without a current father would be a tertiary unfairness in and of itself.
Mila Kunis, Kutcher’s wife and fellow “That ‘70s Show” actor, also testified for Masterson, describing the judge he had “natural goodness and genuine nature.”
Kunis said that throughout our term together, he (Danny) has demonstrated to be an incredible friend, confidant, and, above all, an impressive older brother figure to me.
“His caring personality and capability to deliver advice have been instrumental in my maturing both personally and professionally.”
