Letters from Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, and others on behalf of Danny Masterson to Judge Olmedo
We’ve obtained copies of the letters that were sent to Judge Charlaine Olmedo on behalf of Danny Masterson before his sentencing to 30 years to life in prison yesterday.
We’ve pulled out the ones you are probably most curious about and posted them here, we’ll be adding more later.
It’s perhaps important to keep in mind, these letter writers were probably aware that Judge Olmedo could really only choose between 15 to life and 30 to life. They knew they were not trying to convince her to let Danny walk out of prison.
(Please note: Letters from Danny’s mother, father, and brother Christopher were cut off in the reproduction of court papers, and we’re still looking for more legible copies of them.)
We’ll be talking live with Meghann Cuniff at 2 pm Eastern about the letters here…
Bijou Phillips, wife
Dear Judge Olmedo,
I am writing to you to ask that you consider this information when sentencing my husband, Danny Masterson. Danny and I have been together for 19 years. We married in 2011 and our beautiful daughter was born in 2014. She is the bright spot throughout many years of crises and uncertainty.
I can say that Danny has literally been a life-saving partner to me.
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At the time, our daughter was just three years old. She was our miracle child. I depended on Danny to take care of me and our daughter. I always felt that she would be okay because Danny is an amazing father. He was devoted to our daughter, would read her books, take her on walks and to ballet lessons. I never once heard him complain. The two were inseparable.
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When we finally returned home, we thought we could start to focus on our lives as a family. That's when the investigation against him began. After he lost his show and acting career, he devoted himself to finding other ways to earn a living.
We left our home in Los Angeles to move to a farm in Santa Ynez, where I could recuperate. Danny immediately began to work the land and grow a beautiful vineyard with 6,000 vines, that he tended on his own for six years. He toiled long days on the land to make it profitable for our family. He took classes to learn about growing grapes, wines and he became a sommelier. He also studied the business end of it.
Danny has always been against drugs and helped so many friends and colleagues get sober. My husband, who never smoked a joint in his life, has strong feelings about drugs that have never wavered. He tried to shield the younger actors he worked with from such temptations and offered them advice on their careers and in their lives.
Danny is an amazing father. Our daughter and I are heartbroken that he is not home with us. It has been very difficult without him here. Even though he is now in jail, he calls her every day. He helps her with homework every night. He teaches her math with kindness and patience. She is far above grade level in all subjects, reading three grades above her own, and that is thanks to the guidance and attention of her father. Danny has watched her piano recitals and applauds when she practices in the living room after each song. Our daughter loves her
pony on our farm, as well as our dogs and cats. But more than anything, she loves her father. When he calls us each day, she ends with "I love you too much Daddy."
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We need him more than you can imagine. I know he has been convicted of serious crimes. But the man I married has only been an extraordinary husband to me and a devoted father to our daughter.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.
Very respectfully,
Bijou Phillips Masterson
Ashton Kutcher, actor 'That '70s Show'
Honorable Judge Olmedo,
My name is Ashton Kutcher I am an actor, investor, philanthropist, and most importantly a father. I met Danny Masterson when I was 20 years old in 1998. He instantly became a friend, dedicated co worker, and role model to me. And has remained as such for 25 years.
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. He's taught me about being direct and confronting issues in life and relationships head-on, resolving them, and moving forward. Danny is a person that is consistently there for you when you need him. We've traveled around the world together, raised our daughters together, and shared countless family moments. 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. I attribute not falling into the typical Hollywood life of drugs directly to Danny. Any time that we were to meet someone or interact with someone who was on drugs, or did drugs, he made it clear that that wouldn't be a good person to be friends with. And for me, that was an implication that if I were to do drugs, he wouldn't want to be friends with me, which is something I never would want to risk or jeopardize. I am grateful to him for that positive peer pressure. He also set an extraordinaryy standard around how you tteat other people. There was an incident where we were at a pizza parlor and a belligerent man entered who is berating his girlfriend. We had never met or seen these people before, but Danny was the first person to jump to the defense of this girl. It was an incident he didn't have to get involved i:i but proactively chose to because the way this man was behaving was not right. He has always treated people with decency, equality, and generosity.
After 9-11 Danny was a huge advocate for support of the Firefighters effected by the event, rallying his friends and coworkers to pitch in however they could. Danny had his daughter a year before I had mine. He set a standard of being a hands on dad. We have spent countless
hours together with our kids and he is among few people that I would trust to be alone with my son and daughter. He's also a dedicated and loyal husband with unwavering commitment to his wife.
We have spent hundreds of hours working together. Danny takes his job seriously. He is kind, courteous, and hard working. He treated everyone from the grips to the teamsters to the actors to the caterers as equals. He showed up on time all the time and always pulled his weight. We have also traveled around the world together promoting our work. I can honestly say that no matter where we were, or who we were with, I never saw my friend be anything other than the guy I have described.
While I'm aware that the judgement has been cast as guilty on two counts of rape by force and the victims have a great desire for justice. I hope that my testament to his character is taken into consideration in sentencing. I do not believe he is an ongoing harm to society and having his daughter raised without a present father would a tertiary injustice in and of itself. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Best,
Ashton Kutcher
Mila Kunis, actor ‘That ‘70s Show’
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
Debra Jo Rupp, actor 'That '70s Show'
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
Kurtwood Smith, actor 'That '70s Show'
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
Giovanni Ribisi, actor
To The Honorable Judge Olmedo,
My name is Giovanni Ribisi. I am an actor living in Los Angeles.
I have known Danny Masterson since I was 9 years old. When we were children, Danny would trek across the country from New York and stay with my family and me in North Hollywood during the peak audition months for child actors. It was always a joy for my family to have him as a guest.
Two and half years ago, Danny visited my wife and me at our home. He talked about his farm where he managed to live and support his family by doing most of the work around the farm himself.
I have always known Danny to be an ethical, honest person, who lived with the highest standards in work and family. I have always known Danny to be a central figure in my peer group, because of his integrity, his stance against drugs, his abhorrence of violence and most of all the respect he demonstrates toward women and children. He is a devoted husband and a doting father who sacrifices for his family. His wife and daughter depend on him.
I know Danny has been convicted of two counts of forcible rape. I only ask that you consider his daughter in his sentencing. He is a good father and he is important to her and her upbringing.
Kind Regards,
Giovanni Ribisi
William Baldwin, actor and brother in law
Honorable Judge Olmedo,
My name is William Baldwin. I have been with my wife Chynna Phillips for thirty-two years. Chynna is Bijou Masterson's sister. I have known my sister-in-law Bijou since she was only ten years old and, in many ways, I am a father figure to her. I first met Danny Masterson in 2004 when he started dating Bijou. We have a lot in common. We are both Irishmen from Long Island, both actors and producers in the entertainment industry, and both married to the amazing Phillips sisters.
I know that Danny has been convicted of a very serious crime and is facing a lengthy prison sentence. The purpose of this letter is to inform you about the Danny Masterson that I know. Danny the man, the friend, colleague, family member, husband, and father. Things that were not discussed in court but I think are vitally important for you to know.
As I mentioned previously, I am a father figure to Bijou. There is no question that Danny functions in a similar capacity in his family with all of his siblings ... Will, Christopher, and especially Jordan and Alanna. He is looked up to, admired, revered and respected. This is because of the enormous role Danny has played in the lives of his younger siblings. When only a teenager himself, he helped his single mother with the immense responsibilities of raising their family and he continues to serve in that capacity to this day.
Additionally, as I've also referenced, I have worked in the entertainment industry for 35 years and I can say unequivocally that I have never known anyone that is more beloved than Danny Masterson. I have worked on hundreds of projects with some of the most gifted artists, many experienced, well-informed activists, and extraordinarily generous philanthropists. Never in my entire life have I had more people refer to someone as "family," "my brother" and "best friend" than Danny. Many of them have told me that he was there for them in their "greatest hour of need" and "the darkest hour of their life."
When my son was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. When Bijou required a life-saving kidney transplant, when friends have had marital problems, financial struggles, addiction issues ... Danny was there. "Danny got me a job." "Danny helped me get my health insurance back." "Danny let me crash at his house while I was going through a tough time." "Danny helped pay my bills and feed my children."
Danny has always quietly been there for his family, friends, community, and even strangers with support, words of wisdom, or sage advice about life, career, relationships, and, most importantly, family and parenting. All of it without seeking any recognition or praise.
I know you witnessed firsthand the unwavering support Danny received from his family and friends during his trial. Nothing is more important to him than family. His dad Pete, his mom Carol, all of his siblings, and, of course, his wife Bijou, and wonderful nine-year-old daughter.
Since he has been incarcerated, I have heard him on the phone with his daughter helping her with her math homework while she tries to navigate through this devasting life-changing event at only nine years old.
I have truly never met a person that was a more caring, dedicated, trustworthy, and loyal family member and friend.
I pray to God that you will consider the entirety of who Danny is when considering his sentence.
Respectfully,
William Baldwin
Jordan Masterson, actor and brother
Dear Judge Olmedo:
My name is Jordan Masterson. I'm 37 years old and I'm an actor living in Los Angeles.
Danny is my older brother.
Because you don't know my brother personally, I'm writing on his behalf hoping to give some insight into who Danny is, not only as an individual, but as a father, husband, and brother.
My father left for all intents and purposes when I was six years old.
My little sister was four. We were raised by a single mother who worked her entire life to provide her children with a life that we could be proud of. She preached hard work and integrity, respect for self and others, kindness and patience. No one embodies those qualities more than my brother Danny.
When my father left, my brother stepped into a sort of pseudo father figure role for my little sister and me, even though he was only sixteen himself at the time. Providing not only money when times were lean (which there were plenty), but wisdom and guidance.
He set an example for us about what it was to be loving, professional and respectful. Speaking as a young man without a father, having my big brother as a lodestar was a godsend. Taking me to baseball practice, picking me up from school, introducing me to films and music and art. I wouldn't be the person I am today without my brother. Just knowing someone was there for me outside my mom meant everything to me. While a young boy's father can't be replaced, I would say, in my experience, a great older brother comes really close. I was blessed with two of them.
With Danny being the eldest, the majority of responsibility felf on him at an age he shouldn't have had to shoulder that responsibility. He did. Because he is that kind of person. He was instrumental in steering my life as a teenager. One example of this was when it came to drugs. My brother has never done a drug in his life. When I reached the age that all teenagers do around 16-17, my friends were experimenting with smoking weed or taking other drugs. Danny simply led by example and was able to concisely and easily explain to me the ramifications of tak 1ng drugs. I have still never smoked weed or done any other hard drug and that is a direct result of my brothers guidance and wisdom.
Danny is a loving father to his daughter and a loving husband to his wife. He cares deeply for his family and always puts their needs first and foremost above his. When his wife needed a kidney transplant and was on dialysis for more than a year, my brother was by her side every step of the way. He moved mountains to get her the treatment she needed. Taking care of a young child and a gravely sick wife while also trying to maintain a career to pay for all of the above is extremely hard as you can imagine. But he did it. Never once did he complain or lament his situation.
He has not only raised millions of dollars for charities benefitting law enforcement, firefighters, artists, musicians and humans rights organizations, but has personally donated hundreds of thousands of dollars if not more of his own· money to these charities. My brother cares deeply about others.
When I was shooting my tv show, Danny was also shooting one concurrently. We happened to be sharing the same crew for half the time just based on how scheduling works in the TV business, and there is not one single person on the crew that didn't love Danny. Loved working with him, his sense of pride and respect for what they were all doing together. He made it a wonderful working experience and always made sure they were taken care of. Making sure they were instrumental in the process and not just an afterthought. This is not the experience of most crews in Hollywood I can attest to that.
My brother is just a special guy when it comes to matters like that. He leaves an impression. I understand the lengthy sentence he is facing per the statute and letter of the law. My brother is looking at the rest of his life in prison. I pray that isn't the outcome. I ask for your utmost compassion with regards to Danny so that his family may get to see him again, his young daughter and wife most importantly. They are lost without him, as we all are.
Respectfully,
Jordan Masterson
Alanna Masterson, actor and Danny’s sister
Dear Judge Olmedo:
My name is Alanna Masterson, Danny's only sister and youngest sibling. My brother is facing a lengthy sentence, therefor I wanted to give you some insight into the man that shaped me into the person I am today.
Danny is my best friend and helped raise me when my father left us. My mom was alone providing for all of us and Danny stepped in to shoulder that burden. He helped all of us financially, but also with the daily happenings of his younger siblings. He sat front row at every ballet recital (of which there were plenty) and made sure he was never late, with flowers in hand. He took me to school, to sleepovers·. My first movie at the El Capitan. He came to visit me at boarding school all the time, and he gave his weekends to helping the kids in my drama class. He took me to my first concert and taught me all about music. He gave me a job when I wanted to go to college in New York so I'd have enough money for my subway pass and food.
He let me live with him the entire time I was in school, so I wouldn't have to worry about the financial burden of finding an apartment. He was there when I graduated, front and center. He's never missed anything for me or anyone that I know. He flew to Atlanta where I was working and held my hand through 30 hours of labor, making me laugh in between contractions. He held my daughter so I could sleep and recover, while also taking care of his daughter.
He's the best father and husband I know. Never ever putting himself first. When his wife's kidney failed, he did everything he could to help her. He launched an awareness campaign to find her a match, after she was too far down on the transplant list and they were running out of time.
But the most important thing about my brother Danny, is his relationship with his 9 year old daughter. They are best friends. He does everything with her and for her. Homework, story time, dance class, mini golf, baking, brushing and braiding her hair so her curls don't get into knots.
They have ballet recitals in the living room, and ice skating duets at the rink. They go and see movies every Saturday and go on long adventures together. She'd be lost without him, we all would be. He's our family's true North Star; for so many friends and loved ones.
I hope you take into consideration all of this information in regards to your sentencing. Than you very much.
Respectfully,
Alanna Masterson
Will Masterson, brother
To The Honorable Judge Olmedo,
My name is Will, I am thirty-six years old and Danny's youngest brother. I attended the preliminary hearings and both trials.
I am not a scientologist.
Eleven years senior, Danny is as much my best friend as an older brother. We worked together, we traveled together, and during the height of the pandemic he and his wife, Bijou, graciously welcomed me into their home to live for an extended period of time together with their daughter.
On a daily basis, I had the privilege of seeing how compassionate and caring of a husband and father Danny is. Bijou's health unfortunately suffers heavily from a kidney transplant and Danny constantly makes every foreseeable effort to ease that burden as much as one could ever hope for. And he loves his daughter so much. He took her with us everywhere because she is his best friend too. I will forever cherish the moments of watching them act out the characters from books while reading together before bed. I desperately hope he can one day be a part of her life again.
Whether it's within the family, the community, or thirty plus years of productions he worked on, Danny is always the first to lend a helping hand to those in need and I know he will continue to do so wherever it is he spends the next stage of his life. The people he meets there will be as lucky to have him as I feel unfortunate to lose him.
In 2009 I graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.A. in Economics. Danny was the only one of my siblings to sit through the entire graduation ceremony in the scalding hot sun. He didn't make it a secret how proud of me he was, as he'll tell almost everyone I'm introduced to that I'm his brother who went to college. He wants the same for his nine year old daughter, but his dream is for her to attend Stanford.
Thank you, your honor, for hearing my thoughts on this subject.
Sincerely,
Will Masterson
Steven Mona, retired NYPD Lieutenant
The Honorable Judge Olmedo,
I am writing this letter to you regarding my friend Danny Masterson. I am a retired NYPD lieutenant S/A having served the department for over twenty-one years where I was a unit commander. I am also a World Trade Center 1st responder and that is where my now 17 year friendship with Danny began. In 2006, ill from my exposure at "Ground Zero" and recently retired I signed up for the New York Rescue Workers Detoxification Project after it had helped several of my colleagues. Unconventional and non-profit, the project relied on donations to operate, and Danny was asked to run a fundraiser. He toured the facility and he and I met as I had been asked to talk with him about my experience there. Affable and warm, we immediately developed a rapport which over a brief period developed into a friendship despite our 16 year age difference. That very day we exchanged phone numbers. I recall going home and telling Elaine, my girlfriend (now wife) of our exchange. She remarked, "he sounds nice, I am sure he was just being polite though, he's never going to actually call," I agreed with her.
Imagine my surprise when several hours later I got a text, "Via Demille, dinner with some friends of mine, 9pm, please come." Danny introduced me to a table of people as, "his good friend," and from there it has become so. I met his wife Bijou when they began dating and I count his family as friends as well, having been with them many times over the years.
Your honor, I am painfully aware of the charges of forcible rape Danny has been convicted of and the penalties he faces. I have followed the trials but what I heard runs counter to the man I have gotten to know. I have observed not the character of Steven Hyde that Danny is most famous for but the actual Danny Masterson. That man is a loving husband, a doting father, a man who deeply loves his family and friends. It is a love reciprocated by all that know him because he is truly, "a friend indeed." Danny not only agreed to help raise funds for the NY Detox Project, but he ran several fund raisers, bringing in his friends from the entertainment industry to help. I was at many of those fund raisers, sometimes as a guest speaker, and I have watched Danny use his celebrity to help many of my fellow rescue workers. He received nothing in return for all he did for us and always asked, "what more can I do?"
Those words, "what more can I do?" have meant more to me personally than any other. In 2009, despite feeling physically well I was still dealing with the mental effects of my experiences at the World Trade Center. My fiance and I had split up over my mood swings and I was feeling depressed. A chance call from Danny and I was not only heading into Manhattan to meet him, but he called several mutual friends. They raised my spirits that day and encouraged me to get some much needed help. Elaine and I are about to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary.
In addition to my personal interactions with him I have gotten to know his friends in the entertainment industry, both in front and behind the camera. They describe a man who is honest, dependable, and respectful. A man who would do anything for his family, friends, and co-workers. I have been with him at restaurants and bars both here in New York City and Los Angeles and observed him interact with wait staff, retail workers and fans. His interactions are always respectful, warm and with a touch of his trademark humor.
I hope this gives you an understanding of the Danny Masterson I know and love. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.
Sincerely,
Steven Mona
Justin Mooney, writer
Dear Judge Olmedo,
My name is Justin Mooney, I'm a writer and I have known Danny since grade school. We have been very good friends for over thirty-three years. Our families are friends. We even worked on a television show together.
I am aware Danny has been convicted of two counts of forcible rape and faces a very significant prison sentence as a result. I would like to share with you my experience with Danny as a friend, co-worker, brother, son, husband and father.
Danny does this thing which I admire in that he introduces himself to everyone and finds out their name. He's been a famous actor for his entire adult life yet he always goes out of his way to make others feel seen and important, be it a waitress, or a guy at a gas station, or really any other day-to-day situation. He did this when others weren't watching. It was an authentic care for other people. It may not have seemed like much to him, but I saw him make countless people's days just by that simple action. This is a trait I've seen shared by his siblings, Christopher, Jordan and Alanna, so I'm sure some credit is due to his lovely mother, Carol.
Danny is one of the biggest reasons I have the career J do. He helped me get my foot in the door, taught me how television worked and was my biggest cheerleader in my subsequent promotions.
And his behavior on a television set was just as above. From the head of the smdio, to a new production assistant, Danny knew eve1yone's name and made sure to say hello. He was as loved a co-worker as I've ever seen in all the industries I've worked in. He was professional, talented and had an infectious attitude of happiness to be there that could not be denied. He was truly one of the very best at what he did, as an actor, and a co-worker.
As Danny and I met in grade school, and our families became friends a few years after that, we've gotten to experience growing up together. 1 watched him be a caring, but still cool, big brother. A guy who had an incredibly close relationship with his parents. I got to see him become a wonderful husband. His wife unfortunately has some recurring health issues and Danny has always taken great caTe of her. Then there was the life changing event of becoming a father. Danny is an incredible father to an amazing little girl. It was fun for me to see the changes in him. I recently became a father and Danny often talked to me about his experiences and imparted valuable advice.
The best example I have of what kind of person Danny is takes place, oddly enough, on the day he surrendered himself to police back in 2020. Very late that night, I was driving my then pregnant wife back from a meeting in the bay area when our car collided with a deer. We were luckily not injured, and we made it to ~ service off-ramp but the car was undrivable and we were in the middle of nowhere, hours from Los Angeles and a good thirty minutes to the nearest small town. Two police officers showed up aid helped arrange getting our car towed but we were
stranded. I called a few friends that were maybe within a two-hour drive to come get us but there were no options. One friend texted that Danny's place was about an hour away. I said there was no way I would be calling him, at midnight, on this of all days to ask him for a huge favor. A minute later my phone rang ... Danny asked where we were and if we were okay. Forty-five minutes later he pulled up, of course introduced himself to the police officers and thanked them for helping us, loaded us up and drove us back to his place. His wife had set up a guest room for us and on what had to have been one of the worst days of his life, Danny spent hours making sure my wife and I were okay and taken care of. I don't know that I would've been the kind of person to do that for another. .. I'd like to think I would be ... but I know Danny is.
I hope this helps to paint a fuller picture of who Danny is. I'm sure others will speak of his charitable work, like with the 9/11 First Responders and other stories of him doing things for others like he did for me. That's the thing, my stories about Danny are not unique. He did things like that for so many people for so many years. He had more people who would consider him their good friend than anyone I've ever met.
Thank you for taking the time to read and consider the above.
Sincerely,
Justin Mooney
Jim Patterson, writer and creator of 'The Ranch'
The Honorable Judge Olmedo:
My name is Jim Patterson I am a 1V Writer and the creator a Netfiix show called 'The Ranch". I worked with Danny Masterson on the show and have known him for close to nine years now. I don't really know how to do this and what to say exactly. It's a difficult task. I want to keep it brief for you, but I also want to try and give you a sense of the Danny I know and love.
At work Danny was always professional, courteous, and respectful to the entire cast and crew. He truly was everyone's friend. The kind of person who is funny, kind and always makes time for others no matter their level on the show. He worked hard and had a lot of responsibility, not only as a lead actor, but as an executive producer on the show, but the most important thing to Danny was that our crew/show become a family. Before the first show he pulled me aside and told me we are going to spend more time with these people than our own families 1n a lot of ways and he said I want to make sure we have fun, that everyone on stage feels loved, feels important and feels heard. And that makes sense because family is everything to Danny. Forget his career as an actor, his true calling is being a father, a husband, a son, a brother. I have never met anyone who valued family as much as Danny. There was never a single week when I didn't see his wife and his daughter, or his mom and dad, or his brothers or sister. He simply wanted them around because they are his favorite people in the world. Family is where Danny does his best work.
If I had to encapsulate who Danny is to me based on a single moment it would be when I found out my father was diagnosed with dementia. I only told a couple of people because I wasn't sure how to deal with it and I was In a pretty quiet / down mood the entire day at work. Danny found out from someone what I was going through, and he just came up to me and gave me a huge bear hug and told me he loved me and if I needed anything at all, at any time, he was there for me. That is the Danny I know and love. I am glad he is in my life, and I can't imagine it without him. He treats his friends like his family. He fights for them and tries to help them. I hired four people on the show only because Danny vouched for them. I remain close to all of them to this day. He's always been there for me if I need him and I hope this letter In some small way is me being there for him as well.
I hope this gives you a clearer picture of Danny even in some small way. He is someone I will always consider a friend and I am glad he has been, and will be, in my life.
Sincerely,
Jim Patterson
Shawn Piller, TV producer
To The Honourable Judge Olmedo,
I am writing this letter to request the leniency of a lighter sentence for my longtime friend, Danny Masterson.
By way of introduction, my name is Shawn Michael Piller. I'm an established television producer, showrunner, and writer. In 1996 I met Danny while producing a movie. That was the beginning of what has become a longtime friendship that I hold very dear.
In addition to being a loyal best friend, Danny is a devoted father, husband, and an exceptional human being.
As a dedicated father, Danny's daughter is his life. He fought to bring her into the world with his wife, Bijou when they struggled to conceive. From the moment his daughter was born, Danny put every ounce of himself into being the best father to her - one th2t is patient, kind, and always there for her.
As a devoted husband, I watched how kind and supportive Danny has been to his wife Bijou, the love of his life. He helped her move away from drug use, and supported her to thrive as an actor, partner, best friend, and eventually a loving mother to their sweet daughter.
A commitment to family has always been a priority for Danny. He's been an amazing son to Carol and Pete, 3 mentor to his brothers Chris and Jordan, and a great big brother to sister. Allana. He's always been there for them, even when their father was living on 3 different coast.
Danny is a family man first - an incredible father, son, and husband.
Danny also happens to be one of the most loyal, inspiring, trustworthy, and loving people I've had the pleasure of getting to know. He's always been a person who goes out of their way to help people rise above their personal challenges - he is passionate about supporting others to overcome drug addiction, to pursue their careers, and to overcome personal hardships. He is a caretaker of people who makes time for strangers and friends, and is exceptionally generous with his time - advocating for them to become the best versions of themselves.
His charitable nature extended to the New York Rescue Workers
Detoxification Project, which he supported for many years and encouraged others to do the same.
He's an adamant defender of women. At a late night pizza place, I watched Danny use his words to defend a woman who'd been struck by her boyfriend, ultimately rallying a room of support for her and ensuring security took her to safety. With a calm demeanour, Danny used reason and logic to address the situation. He's always been a great defender of women; one of the good guys.
In both personal and profession31 situations, I've seen Danny step up in a calm manner. to ensure no woman is treated poorly.
As a professional, Danny's been extremely hard-working and a trusted leader. He treated his cast and crew with the utmost respect, including teaching his castmates on The 70's Show how to handle their business affairs, avoid drugs and the pitfalls of fame, and how to behave professionally in the business of entertainment. He truly cares for people - always taking time to get to know people and ensure they're doing well, irrespective of their role, rank, or title.
This can be a rare, but exceptional trait in the entertainment business. He led by example, pushed people to be their best, and inspired many.
Danny loves people and has never shied away from a fan wanting a photo.
Not only would he take a photo or sign an autograph, but he would ask about them. He'd ask their name, where they're from, and how they are doing. He actually cared and took the time to wish them well. He's always felt a great responsibility to be kind and generous with his energy and time.
Danny's family and friends depend on him for emotional support and many
people rely on him for their living. He's employed hundreds of people directly and indirectly both in and out of the entertainment business.
Whether it is as a family man, a business person, or as a caring stranger to those in need, it is my deeply held belief that Danny Ma'sterson is a force for good, who makes the people around him better through love and support.
It is with my intimate knowledge of this man's character over the last thirty years, that I again request your sincere consideration of a lenient sentence for my dear friend, Danny Masterson.
Sincerely,
Shawn Michael Piller
Albert Ribisi, Giovanni's father and longtime Scientologist
Your Honor:
My wife and I have been friends with Danny Masterson for many years. (Our kids grew up around the same time period.) Recently, I became aware that Danny was convicted of 2 counts of rape by force and that he is facing sentencing.
I am a 74 year old, small business owner. My wife, Lyn, is a professor of women's history at Glendale Community College. My kids are actors.
When Danny was about 17, he came to Los Angeles and arranged to stay with us.
What a pleasure.
Danny was the brightest, friendliest, most considerate house guest that anyone could have wanted, always so polite and outgoing without ever being overbearing.
Notably, he made sure to carry his own weight and when he learned that I had been putting off installing a basketball net, (a project I had been dreading), without hesitation, Danny offered to assist me with the entire process, from buying a large amount of cement to digging the hole and setting the thing up.
Despite my initial reluctance, he talked me into it, and together, we got the job done. His encouragement and helpfulness extended beyond the basketball net, as he even joined me at my favorite gym as a supportive teammate for a game of pickup basketball.
By the way, that net provided so much enjoyment for the many barbecues we had that were attended by young people. Such good times.
When my wife, Lyn, and I ran into Danny at an event about 10 years later, he made it a point to come up to us and greet us warmly. About the same time, my wife and I found ourselves in the rare position of being able to take a wonderful trip to New York City to see some Broadway shows.
Danny let us use his apartment for free. My wife is from that area, so this really meant a lot to both of us. We were able to get around the city without spending a fortune.
I'm always impressed by his sincerity and friendliness. I know he misses his daughter terribly.
Respectfully,
Albert Ribisi
Gay Ribisi, Giovanni's mother and longtime Scientologist and Hollywood manager
Dear Honorable Judge Olmedo
I am writing this on behalf of my dear friend, Danny Masterson.
I am 81 years old now and I have known Danny since he was a young boy. When he was a teenager, Danny's family was based in NY, so Danny would come to stay at my house during the busy months of auditioning for TV Shows. He was about 14 or 15 years old at the time. I had teenagers myself and they were all good friends. I found Danny to be very friendly, kind, generous, and always willing to help when he stayed with us. He wanted to make sure he was doing his part. He was never a trouble maker (as some teenagers can be!)... he was a peace maker.
I am an artist and I had an art show back in the 90's. By that time he was a well known actor. Danny came to the opening night, which I thought was a beautiful show of support. It meant a lot to me.
Even though I am an "old lady" now, whenever I would see Danny he would always greet me with a big hug just to show he still cares. I think that shows a lot about his character.
I write this in hopes that Your Honor can see Danny in light of who he really is... a kind, caring, generous and over all wonderful human being.
With respect,
Gay Ribsi
Marissa Ribisi, Giovanni's twin sister
Your honor,
I am writing to you today about Danny Masterson. Danny and I have been friends since we were very young, we grew up together. He used to stay with my family in Los Angeles during the heavy audition months as an actor. He became like a brother to us and very much a part of our family. He was always willing to help around house with our chores, but more than that he was such a pleasure to have, he always embraced our family movie nights, which was really important to my dad. My parents loved him!
Throughout the years I have remained good friends with Danny. We even dated for a brief stint in the late 90s, and he was nothing but kind, such a gentleman, always paid for our meals together, always made sure I was okay. He was happy and warm and fun, and had excellent manners with me. He even escorted me to a dance camp, knowing I really wanted to go, and spent 3 days with me swing dancing so I could improve my skill. I'm sure this was not something he would have died to go to, but he went knowing I really wanted to go.
Danny has a huge group of loyal friends who love him dearly and I understand why. I have only seen him help his friends, one friend he lent money to buy their first home, another guy who fell on hard times, he hosted art shows, threw my friend a wedding, threw birthday parties for us, etc. Over all, if someone in our friend group needed help, they would always go to Danny.
It's why is so loved. He is such a huge support for all of us. I have never heard him say a negative word about anyone, he is and always has been a very positive person, ethical and honest. He was always vocal about his stance against drugs and didn't allow them at his home.
Most importantly, he is an incredibly devoted father and husband. It's amazing to see him with his wife and daughter, his love and patience. I remember when his wife fell very ill, he found the absolute best doctor for her condition and moved them to Chicago for 6 months to be under this doctor's care in order for his wife to receive the help she needed, this allowed her live. My family and I visited them while there and he took us to the best Chicago style pizza place and spoke to my son about baseball. I just remember it being the best night, and my son
was so happy.
Sincerely,
Marissa Ribisi
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I spoke briefly about this at the end of last night's council meeting, recognizing the pain this leaves for his wife, family and friends while appreciating the justice granted to his victims. I said, "You can't be joyful about this" even though I knew many people were. It's a crime that men have gotten away with for far too long and I'm glad to see punishment came even when fame and money would usually till the scale away from justice. But I wanted to mention the verdict to point out that Scientology played a large role in this trial and this win helps the civil case to shed more light on Scientology's years of unfettered abuse and hoped this would tip the scales in that courtroom so that Scientology would face the justice they far too often get away with on the basis of, "We're a religion. You can't touch us." Touch away, I say.
This is a hard read. I have no doubt that he has done kind things for many of his friends and coworkers. But in the dark, towards vulnerable people who he didn’t work with and didn’t have to respect or impress, he was a violent rapist.
Both of those things can be true.
It’s so disappointing that his supporters’ opinions have not changed, even with all the evidence. I can only think that they don’t believe the women because they don’t want to, and I find that reprehensible.