Danny Masterson is now pointing fingers at his former defense attorney, arguing that legal missteps led to his conviction

Masterson Shifts Responsibility After Conviction

November 17, 2025: Danny Masterson, the former That ’70s Show actor currently serving a lengthy prison sentence for rape, has filed new legal documents alleging that his conviction was the result of poor representation rather than his own wrongdoing. According to the filings, Masterson now claims that his defense attorney failed to present key evidence, mishandled witness examinations, and made strategic errors that weakened his case in front of the jury.

Legal Filings Point to “Ineffective Counsel”

In his appeal, Masterson argues that his lawyer did not properly challenge the prosecution’s narrative and ignored opportunities to cross-examine witnesses more aggressively. Sources close to the legal proceedings say Masterson is attempting to establish grounds for ineffective assistance of counsel—a common but difficult argument to prove.
The documents also include claims that important testimony was overlooked and that his attorney advised against calling certain witnesses who Masterson believes could have strengthened his defense.

Reactions From Legal Experts and Public Observers

Legal analysts note that Masterson’s shift in blame is predictable given the seriousness of his conviction and the high-profile nature of the case. Experts say appeals based on attorney performance rarely succeed unless there is clear evidence of negligence or misconduct—neither of which has been established so far.
Meanwhile, public opinion remains firmly divided. Supporters argue that everyone deserves competent legal representation, while critics view the move as an attempt to deflect responsibility and cast doubt on a verdict reached after years of allegations and testimony.

Survivors and Advocacy Groups Respond

Victim advocacy groups have expressed frustration at Masterson’s claims, stating that the actor is trying to undermine the experiences of survivors by shifting attention away from the accusations themselves. Several organizations have released statements urging the courts to prioritize the voices of those who came forward, regardless of Masterson’s latest claims. HOLR has the latest updates as the response continues to unfold.

What Comes Next in Masterson’s Legal Battle

Masterson’s legal team is requesting a new trial or a review of the conviction, relying heavily on the argument that his defense strategy was flawed from the beginning. The court will evaluate the filings in the coming months, but legal insiders suggest the chances of overturning the verdict remain slim.
As the process continues, the case remains one of the most closely watched legal stories in Hollywood, with implications that extend far beyond Masterson’s personal claims.