Danny Masterson's Shocking Prison Sentence Leads to Surprising Custody Decision for Bijou Phillips

Danny Masterson is giving his estranged wife, Bijou Phillips, full custody of their only child as he serves out his 30-year prison sentence.

According to documents obtained by We on Friday, October 20, Masterson agreed to grant Phillips full legal and physical custody of their 9-year-old daughter, Fianna. This was in response to Phillips' initial request for custody when she filed for divorce from the actor in September. Masterson, on the other hand, requested visitation rights.

Phillips initiated the divorce proceedings on September 12, after being married to Masterson for 12 years. She cited "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for the divorce, which came just days after Masterson was sentenced to 30 years in prison in his sexual assault retrial. Masterson, who fervently denies all charges against him, was arrested and charged with three counts of rape in 2020 following allegations made by multiple women who claimed he sexually assaulted them in the early 2000s. Eventually, the That '70s Show actor was convicted on two out of the three charges.

"During this difficult period, Ms. Phillips has made the decision to initiate divorce proceedings from her husband. Her highest priority remains her daughter," her attorney Lauzon Paluch informed TMZ. "The strain on the marriage and the family has been unimaginable. Through it all, Mr. Masterson has consistently supported and been there for Ms. Phillips during her most challenging times. It is acknowledged by Ms. Phillips that Mr. Masterson is an exceptional father to their daughter."

Before officially filing for divorce, Phillips penned a letter to the judge, describing Masterson's relationship with Fianna, in the hopes of securing a more lenient sentence for him.

"Relying on Danny's support for both myself and our daughter, I always had confidence in her well-being due to Danny's exceptional parenting abilities," she wrote. "He displayed unwavering dedication towards our daughter, engaging in activities like reading her books, going on walks, and taking her to ballet lessons. Not once did I hear him express any grievances. They shared an unbreakable bond."

She further expressed the difficulty they faced when being apart from Masterson, who was incarcerated at that time, which added to their separation.

"It has been immensely challenging in his absence, but despite being incarcerated, he makes daily phone calls to her. He diligently assists her with her homework every night, demonstrating kindness and patience while teaching her math. As a result, she has excelled in all subjects, reading three grades above her own. This phenomenal progress can be attributed to her father's guidance and unwavering attention. Danny has never missed her piano recitals and shows his support by applauding her practice sessions in the living room after each song," wrote Phillips. "In conclusion, I consider Masterson to be an exceptional husband to me and a devoted father to our daughter."