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Awaiting decisionPeople v. Masterson
Will Masterson's rape convictions be affirmed?
Where the case stands
Oral argument held June 25, 2026 before Justices Chavez, Richardson and Goorvitch; submission deferred until a final authorized post-argument brief filed in July 2026.
Background
"That '70s Show" actor and Scientologist convicted May 2023 (retrial) of two counts of forcible rape (2003 incidents); sentenced to 30 years to life. National coverage driven by celebrity and the Church of Scientology's role.
Charges
- Two counts of forcible rape (convicted on retrial May 2023)
The arguments
Prosecution/State: Any error was forfeited or harmless; counsel could simply have asked the accusers about contemplated civil suits; the One Strike Law allegations defeat the limitations challenge.
Defense: (1) The One Strike Law is a penalty provision, not an enhancement — so the 10-year limitations period barred prosecution; (2) the jury never heard the accusers' financial motive (their later massive civil suit against Masterson and Scientology); (3) subpoenas for accusers' communications were wrongly quashed; plus ineffective-assistance and pre-charging-delay claims.
The record
- Excluded civil-suit evidence. The accusers' civil action against Masterson/Scientology, which the defense says shows financial motive the jury never heard.
- Quashed subpoenas. Defense subpoenas for accusers' communications, quashed below — a lead appellate issue.
The line-setting read at the time this market opened
Court observers (including Ortega's analyst) read the panel's sparse questioning — near-zero engagement on the limitations issue and no substantive questions after the AG argued — as skepticism toward Masterson's side.
Awaiting decision — The panel's opinion; under California's 90-day rule the court has until October 24, 2026 to decide. The ruling is posted here, and on the board, the moment it's confirmed by two or more independent news organizations.
Sources
- Tony Ortega — appeal hearing report + transcript
- Masterson opening brief (B333069)
- Courthouse News — Masterson asks court to overturn conviction
- Rolling Stone — appeal brief coverage
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