In a significant turn of events, Bijou Phillips has filed for divorce from her husband, Danny Masterson, who was recently found guilty of rape. The filing took place in a California court on Monday, September 18. This decision comes after Phillips had steadfastly supported Masterson throughout his trial and subsequent sentencing.
The couple, who first met in the mid-2000s, exchanged vows in 2011. They have a daughter together, Fianna Francis, born in 2014. Despite Phillips' unwavering support during the trial, her decision to file for divorce post-sentencing indicates a shift in her stance.
Masterson's conviction stems from incidents in the early 2000s when he was found guilty of raping two women on separate occasions. One of the survivors, speaking about her 2003 assault in court, poignantly remarked, "When you raped me, you stole from me. That’s what rape is, a theft of the spirit. You are pathetic, disturbed, and completely violent. The world is better off with you in prison."
Three months post his conviction, Masterson was handed a sentence of 30 years to life in prison. Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo, before announcing the sentence, addressed Masterson directly, emphasizing that he was not the victim in this situation. She stated, "Mr. Masterson, I know that you’re sitting here steadfast in your claims of innocence, and thus no doubt feeling victimized by a justice system that has failed you. Your actions 20 years ago took away another person’s voice, and choice. One way or another you will have to come to terms with your prior actions, and their consequences."
The terms of Masterson's sentence mean he will be eligible for parole only after serving a minimum of 25 and a half years. If parole is denied, he could potentially spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Joe Reaiche, Masterson's former stepfather, recently shared insights into Masterson's transformation over the years. Reaiche, a former Australian rugby star, described Masterson as a "good kid" who later succumbed to the "dark side of Hollywood" post his rise to fame with "That '70s Show" in 1998. Reflecting on the situation, Reaiche said, "The tragedy is he’s gone to jail. The tragedy is the women [who accused Danny of rape] went through that nightmare. The tragedy never ends."
As the news of the divorce filing broke, many are left wondering about the future for Phillips and her daughter, and how they will navigate the challenges ahead. The case has once again spotlighted the serious consequences of sexual assault and the long-lasting impact it has on all parties involved.