Hollywood actor Danny Masterson, best known for his role in the popular sitcom “That 70s Show,” has been handed down a severe sentence of 30 years to life imprisonment.

The charges? Rape accusations dating back two decades. This news comes as a stark reminder that justice, though sometimes delayed, is never denied.

On September 7, 2023, a jury convicted Masterson on two counts of rape. The actor, also a known Scientologist, was charged with raping three women at his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003.

However, the jury deadlocked on the third rape charge, leaving the final verdict on two counts.

The sentencing took place in the Los Angeles Superior Court under Judge Charlaine Olmedo.

Masterson, who was present during the proceedings, chose not to address the court. Instead, he conferred with his defense lawyer, Phillip Cohen, just before the sentencing began.

Judge Olmedo, speaking directly to Masterson, reminded him that he was not the victim in this case. She emphasized his actions from 20 years ago were criminal and the criminal justice system had not failed him, but rather served justice to the victims of his actions.

As part of his sentence, Masterson will have to register as a sex offender upon parole or release. He won’t be eligible for parole until he is 77 years old. His lawyers are expected to file a notice of appeal, indicating this legal battle may not be over just yet.

Following the announcement of the sentence, Masterson was escorted out of the court by Sheriff’s deputies to begin formally serving his time in a state prison. The severity of the sentence, the maximum allowed under the law, left Masterson’s wife, Bijou Phillips, and other family members in tears.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the long arm of the law and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or fame. It also underscores the courage of the victims who came forward to share their traumatic experiences, leading to this significant conviction.