That '70s Show star Danny Masterson to stand trial on rape charges
That '70s Show star Danny Masterson must stand trial on rape charges, a judge has ruled.
Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo on Friday ordered the actor to stand trial on three counts of rape, which he was charged with last year. The decision came after three women who have accused the actor of rape delivered emotional testimony during a preliminary hearing over the course of several days, The Associated Press reports.
One of the accusers, who was identified as Jen B., told the court that Masterson raped her at his home in April 2003 and threatened her with a gun, according to Variety. Another woman alleged Masterson, whom she was in a relationship with for six years, raped her in November 2001, and a third woman alleged he raped her in late 2003, per Variety.
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The actor has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty, with his lawyer saying the sexual encounters with the women were consensual. Masterson faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted.
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Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.
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