Danny Masterson’s net worth was once estimated at $16 million, a figure built on his successful acting career and savvy real estate investments. Today, however, his fortune has dwindled to around $5 million—or possibly even less—following serious legal issues and a conviction for rape. This article delves into Masterson’s journey from child actor to Hollywood star, and ultimately, to a man embroiled in scandal.
Let’s explore his early life, rise to fame, the legal battles that tainted his legacy, and the true state of Danny Masterson’s net worth.
Early Life and Family Background
A Childhood in the Spotlight
Danny Masterson was born on 13 March 1976 in Long Island, New York. Raised in a family already immersed in the entertainment world—his parents, Carol and Peter, were actors—Masterson was no stranger to cameras from a young age. His upbringing across Albertson, Garden City, and East Williston in Nassau County gave him both suburban stability and exposure to the arts.
A Family of Performers
Danny comes from a talented family that also includes:
- Christopher Masterson – His younger brother, best known for his role in Malcolm in the Middle.
- Jordan Masterson – Half-brother, actor.
- Alanna Masterson – Half-sister, actress known for The Walking Dead.
- Will Masterson – Paternal half-brother.
Personal Life and Relationships
Scientology and Marriage to Bijou Phillips
A known Scientologist, Danny Masterson began dating actress Bijou Phillips in 2004. Their relationship progressed as follows:
- Engaged: 2009
- Married: 18 October 2011
- Child: A daughter born in February 2014
However, the marriage dissolved in 2023 after Danny’s legal troubles escalated. Bijou filed for divorce on 18 September 2023, seeking full custody of their daughter and spousal support.
Early Career Beginnings
Modelling and Commercial Success
Danny began modelling at just four years old. By five, he was appearing in national TV commercials and magazine ads. His charisma led him into musical theatre by age eight. By sixteen, he was already working with major brands like:
- Kellogg’s Corn Flakes
- Hardee’s
- Hostess
- Tang
- Clearasil
Although his voice changed in adolescence, potentially limiting musical roles, his acting momentum remained strong.
Acting Career: The Rise and Fall
Breakthrough Roles
Danny Masterson made appearances in Beethoven’s 2nd and the sitcom Cybill during the early 1990s. However, his real breakthrough came with a role in Teenage Wasteland, which evolved into the iconic That ’70s Show.
Peak Success: That ’70s Show (1998–2006)
Portraying Steven Hyde, Masterson became one of the highest-paid actors on That ’70s Show, reportedly earning $250,000 to $300,000 per episode. This role was a major contributor to his peak net worth and cemented his place in pop culture.
Post-That ’70s Show Projects
Following his success, Masterson continued acting in various films and TV shows:
- Yes Man (2008)
- The Bridge to Nowhere (2009) – alongside then-future wife Bijou Phillips
- The Chicago 8 (2010)
- White Collar (2011)
- Men at Work (2012)
- Alter Egos (2012)
Controversies and Career Decline
By 2017, Masterson faced multiple allegations of sexual assault. These accusations led to his removal from the Netflix series The Ranch and exclusion from That ’90s Show, a sequel to his former hit. Former co-star Laura Prepon had by then left Scientology, distancing herself from the controversy.
Other Ventures and Interests
DJ Career
Beyond acting, Masterson is also known as a DJ, performing under the name DJ Mom Jeans. His talents in the music scene added another layer to his earnings and public persona.
Real Estate Investments
Masterson invested heavily in property, including:
- A home on Holly Mont Drive, LA – bought in 1998 for $560,000, sold in 2007 for $1.595 million
- Multiple apartments and small residential buildings in LA
- A property sold to Laura Prepon for $165,000 in 2003
- A Hollywood Hills residence
- A luxurious Santa Ynez estate bought in 2007 for $2.995 million, once owned by Chuck Berry
These investments significantly bolstered his financial portfolio during his career peak.
Danny Masterson Net Worth
Financial Timeline
- Peak Net Worth: Estimated at around $16 million
- 2023 Net Worth (Post-Conviction): Approximately $8 million
- 2024 Net Worth Estimate: Between $0 to $5 million, accounting for ongoing legal fees and prison-related costs
Most of his wealth came from his acting roles—especially That ’70s Show—as well as film appearances, DJing, and property investments.
Legal Troubles and Conviction
Timeline of Events
- 2017: Accused by three women of rape
- 2020: Officially charged with three counts of rape
- May 2023: Found guilty of forcibly raping two women
- Sentencing: 30 years to life in prison
The scandal not only destroyed Masterson’s public image but also resulted in major financial loss due to legal costs, dropped acting opportunities, and reputational damage.
Conclusion
Danny Masterson’s story is a stark reminder of how fame and fortune can quickly unravel. Once a beloved sitcom star with a promising future, Masterson saw his wealth and career decline sharply following serious legal accusations and his 2023 conviction. Today, his net worth is a fraction of what it once was—estimated at around $5 million or even lower.
While his talent once put him among television’s elite, Masterson now faces the consequences of actions that have not only cost him his career but reshaped his life entirely. His downfall is a sobering narrative of success, scandal, and the price of reputation.
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