Ashton Kutcher Resigns From His Anti-Child Sex Abuse Organization Amid Danny Masterson Support Backlash

It is a pattern, he had done the same thing before.

From Wikipedia:

"In November 2011, Kutcher received heavy criticism for his tweet in response to the Jerry Sandusky child sexual abuse scandal, calling the firing of Penn State football coach Joe Paterno "in poor taste". Kutcher subsequently turned over management of his Twitter account to his team at the Katalyst Media company."

Edit:

The more I read his past I find more disturbing statement that shows red flags.

"Bixler and others have cited additional ways in which Kutcher showed questionable behavior in the past, specifically pointing to a 2003 video of the actor speaking on his MTV show “Punk’d” about actress Hilary Duff. In the video, Kutcher says Duff, who was a minor at the time, is “one of the girls that we’re all waiting for to turn 18. Along with the Olsen twins.”"

danny was already convicted of the rapes when kutcher wrote the letter, saying that danny was an outstanding citizen.

I’m somewhat familiar with the case as I follow an ex-scientologist dude on yt (youtube.com/@GrowingUpInScientology) who was present in the court and reported on all nuances. According to him, Kutcher knew about Masterson’s drugging raping habit, also personally knew one of the women named in the case that prosecuted him (she was also present when Kutcher, upon finding her murdered girlfriend, instead calling 911, called his agent and Masterson).

Said letter’s general purpose to the judge is to ask for a lighter sentence in light of the jury decision, and they try to make him look like the nicest person ever walked on earth, always respecting woman and against all drugs that quasi questions the sentence as is. They deserve the backlash.

Nuance is dead, unfortunately.

The 8 people that downvoted you are the type of people that love cancel culture.

Ashton was shitty defending his friend. Ashton does not deserve the backlash he is receiving for the exact reasons you describe.

Then again, Lemmy was up in arms over the LTT situation, and all of my comments saying "hey, lets wait to hear both sides" were HEAVILY downvoted.

This is typical garbage. You're literally imitating the townspeople from the "change the racist flag" episode of South Park.

While I would tend to agree, if I'm reading this correctly, they sent the letters for the sentencing... meaning he was already convicted of rape and they were pleading for leniency for an old rapist buddy, like within the last few months. That is a really bad look no matter how you slice it.

Although I tend to agree, I think this was also the correct decision. He would have distracted from the good work the organisation does.

Get out of here with your reason. That's not what the internet is for. Now, would you like a torch or pitchfork?

I think it's fair to judge someone directly involved with covering up a rapist when that person is also very vocal and actively involved in combating exactly that crime. That's a pretty massive lapse in judgement and more indicative of his true character than someone that had a single instance of road rage or similar emotional outburst.

His worst decision was very relevant to the organization he was part of. I get that they are friends but he probably should be in a good position to understand how unlikely it is that his friend was innocent and how dumb it would be to put himself on the line defending him given what that organization stands for.

Condemn him? No. Judge him? Yeah, a little bit.

This isn't his worst decision, there is a high probability that he disturbed a murder scene, didn't report it until the next morning which ruined a police investigation allowing the killer to go free and kill again...

OK, now think of this from the perspective of the victims of Danny Masterson's crimes - what do you think they feel about Ashton's letter of support?

Is that quote taken directly out of his letter supporting his rapist buddy?

Yea, I get it, some will disagree but, in the end, I'm a bigger fan of "call out culture" than "cancel culture". The former gives the person a chance to course-correct.

So it’s ok that he rapes people? Vomit

Unfortunately, it doesnt matter how much good you’ve done. People love witch hunts. Whether this is his worst decision or not, it’s one decision, now the rest are erased.

He’s done good and would continue to, but people are happier if he is never heard from again rather than him helping kids for the rest of his life.

Someone in a comment a few days ago, who was themselves asked to write such a letter for someone they knew who was charged and ultimately convicted, made an excellent observation:

Defense attorneys are very likely to have requested those character reference letters way before the case even made it to trial. So it's entirely possible that Kutcher and Kunis wrote those letters long ago, based on information they had at the time, probably thinking the charges were unfounded.

Now, obviously, the easy solution to that would be if they were to come out now and tell whether that happened or not, and make clear what they think now. Which is what I would do, but I'm also not a Hollywoo celebrity with publicists and handlers and lawyers.

But he mentors other actors! And he doesn’t take drugs!

I really don’t know what either of them were thinking. Rapists don’t need leniency, especially in this situation.

I'm sure that's not what was in his letter.

If your question is merely about public relations, sure it's a terrible move. But I think there's actually a more meaningful question underlying all this furor; what are the limits of friendship or love? What is one supposed to do when someone close does something horrible? Cast them aside? Pretend you never knew them?

Kutcher must have had some idea of the risk he was taking, but he did it anyway. I find that striking. For some people friendships can be like family. I feel like this is an older sentiment that doesn't find expression often today. Would you find it appalling if Masterson's mother spoke on behalf of his character, or should she likewise keep her distance?

I don't know. It all just seems more complicated and tragic than the typical social media mob can process.

I knew a guy, generally a good guy, and he helped me out when I was young.

Anyways, he made some bad choices (namely cheating on his fiance with his childhood bestie), knocked said girl up, they got married... they had another kid... a few years later this relationship turned sour, and I was rarely hearing from him. I later learned he was living out of his car at times.

At one point during this mess he told me his soon to be ex wife invited him over one night, they slept together, then he woke up with the cops in his face and her accusing him of raping her last night.

I didn't know what to think of it at the time, and I still don't. The person I thought I knew never would've cheated on his fiance... surely he wouldn't have raped someone.

Unlike this story, the charges for the guy I know were dropped and he wasn't prosecuted, let alone convicted. Maybe it was just a ploy for a better outcome in the divorce? That seems to be the conclusion the police drew. If it had gone to trial and he'd been convicted... I probably wouldn't have written a similar letter? But also maybe it would've been in some ways good for the judge to see not just this person at their worst moments but at better moments? What if the evidence wasn't strong? What if I hadn't followed the case closely?

I haven't heard from this guy in years at this point, hence why I'm avoiding the word friend. However at one point, he was a friend ... and I don't find it so easy to reconcile the "person you know" with the "person you've been told you know"

I think it's more about that difficulty reconciling, than "he never raped me." If they weren't lying in their letters as well... maybe this should just be considered part of the process? Like, yes Masterson committed the crime, now who else was he? Did he contribute nothing to society except for being a vicious Hollywood predator? etc.

The scientology thing adds a whole other angle here...

Anyways, the point is it's easy to not understand why someone would do something, but that doesn't mean it's not understandable (it doesn't mean it's justified either).

They likely assumed it wouldn’t get out. They were banking on being able to use their celebrity to try and influence the outcome.

Thanks for saving me a click bud

that doesn’t really help saving kids, but rather persecute consensual and voluntary sex workers.

I'd love a citation on this if you've got it.

What it is just used for prosecuting adult non-trafficed sex workers?? That's such a ridiculous perversion of the original mission statement, what a piece of shit. "Helping" sex workers by making them go to prison lol, which is the same way police "help" people with substance abuse problems. He was also an investor in Uber so it's adds up that he only cares for making money.

The reason Epstein was undetected or untouched was because he was nice. Getting along means not getting caught. Now that doesn't mean that everyone nice is up to something, but it means it is a reason he was able to infiltrate so many upper crust circles.

I don't ever recall him lying to me.

That's fair. I can't remember the last time I asked of my friends, or they asked of me, "Forcibly raped anyone recently?" I'm quite certain anyone who would forcibly rape another person would answer that honestly. Really this is all Ashton's fault. Had he just asked that question, we could have got this mess taken care of long ago.

#Kurtwood Smith's (who played the dad/Red Foreman) letter#

Dear Judge Olmedo:

My name is Kurtwood Smith. I have been a professional actor for 57 years, the last 43 years working primarily in film and television. It is as an actor that I came to know Danny Masterson.

I should mention that I am aware that Danny has been convicted of two counts of forcible rape and is awaiting sentencing.

I have known Danny since the spring of 1998, when we began filming the television show That 70s Show. We worked on the show for eight years and I consider Danny to be a good friend. Our friendship revolved around work. Primarily because of our age difference we didn't socialize much outside of work but I saw hi every day on the job whether we had scenes together or not.

I believe Danny to be a wonderful actor. When working together I always found him to be prepared, inventive, and responsive to suggestions from the director, myself, and other actors. Danny was also very enjoyable to be around. He has a quick wit and a good sense of humor. I always looked forward to working on scenes with Danny. I should mention that he was extremely popular with the crew. He was usually the first actor to learn every crew member's name, what their job was, and how it related to his job. Danny was the leader among his contemporaries in the cast. He was a tad older and much more experienced and he took that position seriously.

During the eight years we did the show. we never had the problems some other shows had with their younger cast members. After the show ended in 2006 I didn't see much of Danny, except for occasional events, until almost 10 years later, when I began playing a recurring character on The Ranch. Danny was one of the stars of the show. I was happy to be working with him again. It was also great to see his family. If you know Danny, you know his family.

I have known his parents and younger brothers and sister since we started work on That 70s Show. They are a very close knit family; they seem to care very much for each other and work to help one another succeed.

Danny was now married and the father of a beautiful little girl. It was a treat to spend some time with him at work and to be around him and his family. I had met his wife while we were still shooting That 70s Show, although they were not married at the time.

I found that Danny treated all women on the show with respect, not only the women in the cast, but women on the crew as well. It was my observation that he treated the woman he married in a respectful and loving way. Later, when we were working on The Ranch. I was aware that, not only were they a happy couple, but he was a wonderful father to his daughter.

I had the opportunity to watch Danny with his daughter. At the time she was maybe two or three years old. It was so clear how much he loved her and how delighted he was with her. He was so patient and easygoing with her. At one point, when she became fussy, he joked with her and made faces and she calmed down and was laughing. She clearly loved her daddy.

I consider Danny a talented, hardworking, giving actor. I have viewed him being respectful and considerate to those he has worked with. He has been a leader and positive force among his peers. He has seemed loving and caring, not only towards his wife and daughter, but his family at large.

For all the reasons I have mentioned I consider myself fortunate to have had Danny Masterson in my life.

Sincerely yours,

Kurtwood Smith

#Mila Kunis's letter#

To The Honorable Judge Olmedo

I am writing this character letter on behalf of my dear friend, Danny Masterson, with whom I have had the privilege of sharing a significant part of my life. My name is Mila Kunis, and I am an actress, and I believe it is essential to share the remarkable influence Danny has had on my life and the lives of others.

I first met Danny during our time working together on That 70's Show, and from the very beginning, I could sense his innate goodness and genuine nature. Throughout our time together, Danny has proven to be an amazing friend, confidant, and, above all, an outstanding older brother figure to me. His caring nature and ability to offer guidance have been instrumental in my growth both personally and professionally.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Danny's character is his unwavering commitment to discouraging the use of drugs. His influence on me in this regard has been invaluable. In an industry where the pressures and temptations of substance use can be overwhelming, Danny played a pivotal role in guiding me away from such destructive paths. His dedication to avoiding all substances has inspired not only me but also countless others in our circle. Danny's steadfastness in promoting a drug-free lifestyle has been a guiding light in my journey through the entertainment world and has helped me prioritize my well-being and focus on making responsible choices. His genuine concern for those around him and his commitment to leading by example make him an outstanding role model and friend.

Danny's role as a husband and father to his daughter has been nothing short of extraordinary. Witnessing his interactions with his daughter has been heartwarming and enlightening. He prioritizes his family, education, and happiness above all else, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to being a loving and responsible parent. As a father, he leads by example, instilling in her values that reflect integrity, compassion, and respect for others.

Moreover, Danny has consistently displayed a profound sense of responsibility and care for those around him. He demonstrates grace and empathy in every situation, be it within the entertainment industry or in our personal lives. His steady support and understanding presence make him a reliable source of guidance and comfort for all of us.

Danny Masterson's warmth, humor, and positive outlook on life have been a driving force in shaping my character and the way I approach life's challenges. His unwavering commitment to being an exceptional older brother figure to me has had a transformative impact on my life, instilling in me a sense of self-belief and encouraging me to aim for greatness, but all while maintaining a sense of humility.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly vouch for Danny Masterson's exceptional character and the tremendous positive influence he has had on me and the people around him. His dedication to leading a drug-free life and the genuine care he extends to others make him an outstanding role model and friend.

Please feel free to reach out if you require any further information or clarification.

Sincerely,

Mila Kunis

I thought this one was the most interesting as it addresses his crimes head on.

#Debra Jo Rup’s (who played the mom/Kitty Foreman) letter#

Dear Judge Olmedo,

My name is Debra, I am 72 years old, and I live in the mountains In Western Massachusetts. I am writing this letter on behalf of Danny Masterson.

I have known Danny and his family since 1998 when I began working with him on "That 70's Show". I am aware that Danny is convicted of 2 counts of forceable rape and, though it is so hard for me to wrap my head around this, I respect the law and the court. I always have.

But I would like to tell you about the young man I know. Danny was the leader of the "kids" on our show. He had the most acting experience and was a little bit older. He was well liked and very respected. One of the first things Danny did with them was to sit them all down (he had a little meeting) and had them al make a pact that no one would do drugs because of the nature of our show. The spotlight would be on them and he wanted everyone to succeed. I remember thinking that it was such a smart thing to do and something I never would have thought of. As a result, you never saw them in the tabloids. Danny made sure of that and I was so appreciative. They all kept their word.

Danny was always respectful and kind. On show days when the camera crew would come in, Danny was the one that shook each camera man's hand before we started. He knew everyone's name, where they lived and about their families. I did not. He was loved. Over the years Danny is one of the few that came to support me by seeing my shows in the theater. He brought his family sometimes. And it was a joy. And so appreciated. One night we went to dinner, he had dragged another cast member, his father and some friends to see me, and it was dark and late after theater. I had to get home in New York City so Danny called an Uber, paid for it and escorted me out. There are so many instances of things like this. He was just like that. Respectful and kind.

Wilmer Valderama asked the cast of 70's Show to go to his high school graduation. Danny and I were the only ones to go. I remember looking at him and dying. It was outside, in the valley, really hot, and he was a "V" alphabetically. We laughed so hard during that. It's a really nice memory. Danny just always showed up to support.

I knew Danny's family through work. I had worked with his brother Chris on another show and always saw his family hanging out in his dressing room. Danny's dressing room was above mine and Danny loved music. Many times I found myself going upstairs to ask him to turn it down and was always greeted with an apology, a grin and an instant fix. It's these little things that come to mind when I think of Danny. I later did his show ''The Ranch", he called me at home in Massachusetts. I hadn't done tv in awhile, and he offered it to me. I was so grateful and touched. I loved hearing him play with his daughter in the hallways - it was an awesome giggle.

So thank you for allowing me to-tell you about the Danny Masterson that I love I just read this letter back. It's so hard for me to express o paper but I understand that he is facing a lengthy sentence and I really wanted to tell you about these moments. He would take the time to do it for me.

Sincerely,

Debra Jo Rupp

As a friend, Danny has been nothing but a positive influence on me.

He’s an extraordinarily honest and intentional human being.

Over 25 year relationship I don’t ever recall him lying to me.

Not only is he a good friend to me I’ve witnessed him be a good friend to others and the kind of brother others would be lucky to have.

As a role model, Danny has consistently been an excellent one.

... danny's an amazing man who walks on water... the serial rapist thing isn't the real him...

That’s the real question, highly likely there’s others.

People are complicated. We can say he did good things for kids while also doing bad things like defending Masterson. We can admit it must be hard for him to condemn his friend while also still saying he still needed to.

People can do both good and bad things, we can say the good things he did are good while also saying he shouldn't have done bad things.

I mean, I guess that's somewhat positive..?

It was stupid of them to say anything. They aren't in the court room. Their letters aren't going to affect the decision nor sentencing.

I do believe in innocent until proven guilty, but Ashton publicly crucified and called every person arrested by thorn a trafficker and rapist, before they had their day in court. Yet when it's his friend, even after three verdict, he's still defending him. It just makes all his work with thorn look self serving, and makes me wonder if he's doing it to throw people off the scent, considering he bedded a 14 year old.

I'm glad I'm not the only one who read it that way.

I mean wouldn't it be better that they don't want children in their sex abuse organization?

Correct.

Do you know anything about the charity? Or just what his PR team sold you?

@xc2215x I am sure he knew all along.

@ZeroCool

Yeah, no. If my best friend, if my brother were convicted by a jury of their peers multiple times for forcibly raping women, I'm out. It doesn't mean I'd lobby for the punishment to be harsher or anything, but like, they did it. The judge and jury heard all the evidence and testimony and determined he's guilty. Keep in mind, he committed a pre-meditated crime that probably traumatized the poor victim. For life. Then he did it again.

AFTER knowing that, if you insert yourself into the Justice process and go out of your way to write a letter trying to use personal anecdotes/celebrity/money/fame/goodwill to enable them to get a lighter sentence... you're a piece of shit. The innocent victims don't have celebrities on their side putting their thumbs on the scale...

I don’t have many friends. The few I have I like a lot, and would go to great lengths to help them. If one of my friends asked me to write a letter to a judge. Even if I knew they did it. I’d write that letter. I would do and have done far crazier, and morally dubious thangs than that to help or protect a friend.

What about if your friend raped children? Would you still be ok with that? Or are you only OK with it if they rape adults? Just trying to work out exactly where people like you draw the line.

PS: You didn't need to include the part about not having many friends, it's heavily implied by the rest of your comment.

I don’t have many friends.

Yeah, I can see why.

People defending their friends are now "creepy." The internet has ruined people's brains.

Quite the claim to not post any evidence of outside of a letter written to the judge from a friend which might stop his friend from spending the rest of his life rotting in jail instead of getting rehab like the rest of the world does

Its more that he supported his rapist friend to try and get his sentence reduced through a character statement. He could have, you know, not supported a rapist just because they had good times making a show together 15 years ago.

That's how a jury trial works. You need all 12 to agree, otherwise it is a hung jury and declared a mistrial. It is then up to the prosecutor to retry the case if they want to.

It isn't double jeopardy because the trial didn't come to a decision. If all 12 jury members agreed, one way or another, that is the end of it. At least for that/those counts.

Mistrials don't incur double jeopardy, they invalidate the trial as if it didn't happen. It's how the law works.

A mistrial is not a definitive outcome. Not-guilty or guilty would be the definitive outcome.

People need to "lighten the fuck up" about rape?!

People also need to not support rapists. I mean, give him.support as a friend while clearly letting him know he was wrong. But, to try to ask for leniency minimizes the rapist actions, ignoring the victims.