Masterson Blames Lawyer, Seeks New Trial

The Latest Legal Battle in Masterson's Rape Conviction

Danny Masterson, the former That '70s Show star serving a 30-year prison sentence for rape, has filed a sweeping habeas corpus petition demanding a new trial. The 183-page document, submitted on November 17, 2025, claims his conviction resulted from systemic failures—including a poor defense strategy, prosecutorial misconduct, and anti-Scientology bias—that denied him a fair trial.

Key Allegations Against Defense Counsel

Masterson's new attorney, Eric Multhaup, accuses former lawyer Philip Cohen of abandoning critical exculpatory evidence. The petition alleges Cohen failed to interview witnesses who could have testified that the sexual encounters were consensual, including friends of the victims who allegedly described the incidents as consensual and, in one case, "the best sex she had ever had." Despite investigators presenting this evidence to Cohen, the defense called only two witnesses and presented no affirmative defense during the 2023 retrial.

"The jury heard only half the story—the prosecution's side. Danny deserves a new trial where the jury can hear his side as well."

—Eric Multhaup, Masterson's Attorney

Scientology's Role in the Trial

The prosecution heavily emphasized Masterson's ties to the Church of Scientology, with victims testifying they were discouraged from reporting him due to church doctrine. Masterson claims his defense failed to counter this by calling a Scientology witness to rebut the prosecution's expert. Furthermore, the petition alleges actress Leah Remini—who was "welcomed into the prosecution fold" as an adviser despite her "ongoing vendetta" against the church—biased the investigation against Masterson's faith.

The case has seen intense scrutiny of Scientology's influence. Last year, Judge Charlaine Olmedo sanctioned Masterson's former lawyers for improperly sharing trial materials with the church, which included victims' private conversations and home addresses. The church has denied all wrongdoing.

What Happens Next?

Masterson's petition asks the court to grant a new trial based on claims of judicial bias and ineffective counsel. Prosecutors and Cohen have yet to comment publicly. The outcome could hinge on whether the court accepts arguments that critical evidence was withheld and whether anti-Scientology prejudice tainted the proceedings.

As Masterson continues his appeal, the case remains a focal point for debates about celebrity justice, religious freedom, and the reliability of high-profile trials.