Controversial 'That '70s Show' Defense: Topher Grace Applauded, Co-Stars Slam Over Support for Danny Masterson Pre-Rape Conviction
Topher Grace receives praise from That '70s Show fans, while his co-stars face criticism for defending Danny Masterson before his rape conviction Public opinion shifts, recognizing Grace as the show's saving grace
Summary
Topher Grace's decision to not defend Danny Masterson before his rape conviction has earned him praise from fans on Twitter.
Grace, previously known for being quiet and anti-social on "That '70s Show," is gaining a newfound respect as he distances himself from co-stars rumored to be toxic. On Twitter, users are not only praising Grace for avoiding association with them but also criticizing the rest of the cast and commending him for not getting involved in the trial.
While his co-stars from That '70s Show are facing criticism for defending Danny Masterson prior to his rape conviction, Topher Grace is receiving praise from fans of the show. Grace starred in the sitcom alongside Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, and Masterson. Unlike his fellow actors, he has managed to distance himself from the trial that recently resulted in Masterson being found guilty of two counts of rape, leading to a sentence of 30 years to life in prison. The other two stars had sent letters of support for Masterson before his sentencing.
Following Masterson's conviction, Grace's decision to refrain from showing support for his co-star has garnered him admiration on the internet. Twitter users are expressing their respect for Grace as an actor. Previously, Grace was seen as a reserved and introverted presence from a beloved series, but this incident seems to be changing people's perceptions. Take a look at some of the posts below:
Twitter user @jasminpigemoji recounts the criticism Grace received upon failing to establish friendships with the cast members of That '70s Show.
Twitter user @TheFirstOkiro concludes that Grace's decision to distance himself from his "toxic" co-stars paints him in a positive light, labeling him as a "cool guy".
Twitter user @kipjmooney is prepared to disregard the entire cast, except for Grace, Laura Prepon, and Wilmer Valderrama.
Twitter user @Krakoan4Life envisions the sense of relief Grace must feel after being completely justified in avoiding the remaining members of the cast.
@SteveThreePo expresses profound disappointment with the majority of the cast, with the exception of Grace and Valderrama.
@genvinz concludes that Grace's purported contempt towards the remaining cast members becomes more comprehensible in light of their recent behavior.
@fleMitchfilm argues that the divulged information regarding Kunis, Kutcher, and Masterson has added tolerance to Grace's character, making her more appealing compared to the rest of the cast.
@Zora_thee_pony has developed a newfound fondness for Grace, following the revelation of facts concerning Kunis, Kutcher, and Masterson.
@feverspell points out that Grace was right all along because they believe that he really is better than the rest of the cast.
Public Opinion Has Changed For Topher Grace
For years, rumors have circulated regarding Grace's alleged anti-social behavior during the production of That '70s Show. Although these rumors lack specific details, they claim that he seldom engaged with the rest of the cast. However, the recent letters written by Kunis and Kutcher in defense of Masterson indicate that Grace's supposed reluctance was greatly misunderstood.
Kutcher and Kunis penned letters in an effort to mitigate Masterson's potential sentence, even after his conviction. The defense sought a sentence of 15 years to life, and the letters aimed to establish Masterson as a man of exemplary character, positively influencing society. Kutcher specifically stated that Masterson does not perpetuate "ongoing harm to society", while Kunis praised him as a "remarkable force for good." Additional support came from their That '70s Show co-stars, including Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith, who also sent letters.
No reports suggest that Grace contributed any letters, prompting admiration for the actor. He made no attempt to defend a rapist or reduce Masterson's sentence. Masterson's crime may tarnish That '70s Show's reputation, but Topher Grace remains untainted. Grace's return in the already-announced That '90s Show season 2 could potentially safeguard the franchise's future prospects.
Source: Various (see above)
