Actress Bijou Phillips has filed for divorce from her husband, Danny Masterson, less than two weeks after he was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for rape.
Phillips’ attorney released a statement saying that she made the decision to file for divorce during this unfortunate time, with her priority being her daughter. Despite the difficulties, the statement acknowledged Masterson’s role as a wonderful father. The former couple had been together for over a decade before getting married in 2011 and welcoming their daughter in 2014. Masterson, known for his role in That 70s Show, was convicted of raping two women at his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003. The jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision on a third count. This was Masterson’s second trial, as a mistrial was declared in November 2022 due to the jury’s inability to come to unanimous decisions on all charges.
The Los Angeles district attorney commented on the sentencing, expressing support for the victims who endured not only Masterson’s abuse but also a system that is often not favourable to victims. Despite his conviction, Masterson has maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal.