Danny Masterson Is Fired From Netflix 'The Ranch' Due To Rape Allegations
Following the announcement that Netflix has decided to move forward with the production of House of Cards without Kevin Spacey, another actor has been dropped from one of its original series. Danny Masterson has been removed from the show, The Ranch, following multiple allegations of rape.
Netflix made the official announcement on Monday after it was reported that executive Andy Yeatman told one of Masterson's accusers the reason why the actor has not been fired. That is because they did not believe her story. Yeatman later stated that he wasn't aware he was speaking to one of Masterson's alleged victims.
"As a result of ongoing discussions, Netflix and the producers have written Danny Masterson out of The Ranch. [Monday] was his last day on the show, and production will resume in early 2018 without him," Netflix said in its official statement.
Masterson will still appear in second half of the show's second season and may make guest appearances in the third season. The actor has also responded to the company's decision to remove him from the scripted comedy.
"I am obviously very disappointed in Netflix's decision to write my character off The Ranch. From day one, I have denied the outrageous allegations against me. I have never been charged with a crime, let alone convicted of one," Masterson said. In this country, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, in the current climate, it seems as if you are presumed guilty the moment you are accused. I understand and look forward to clearing my name once and for all."
Masterson's Accusers Attack Netflix
Back in November, one of Masterson's accusers attacked the company after it was announced that Kevin Spacey was fired from the show, House of Cards. Chrissie Carnell Baker, who had accused Masterson of raping her in the early 2000's, vented her frustrations on Twitter about the popular streaming service allowing Masterson to continue to star on the show.
Baker claimed that she filed a police report about the incident and even sought help from the Church of Scientology since Masterson is an active member there. Baker alleged that the church would not support her allegations and persuaded her not to go forward with them.
Three other women have also accused the former That 70's Show star of rape. The LAPD reported last year that they were looking into these claims. However, the case was dropped as there was not enough evidence to pursue an official investigation against him.
Masterson starred in the series since Season 1 opposite his friend and previous co-star, Ashton Kutcher.
