Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, beloved co-stars from the iconic sitcom ‘That ’70s Show’, have announced their departure from the Netflix spinoff series ‘That ’90s Show’ for its upcoming second season. This decision follows a wave of backlash the couple faced for writing letters in support of their former co-star, Danny Masterson, who was convicted of multiple counts of rape.
Kutcher and Kunis reprised their roles as Michael Kelso and Jackie Burkhart, respectively, in one episode of the spinoff’s first season. Their appearance marked a nostalgic moment for fans of the original series. However, the couple has decided not to return for further episodes, stating that they have accomplished their goal of establishing a foundation for their characters’ futures.
The spinoff, which revolves around a new generation of teenagers, initially featured Kutcher and Kunis in a guest appearance. Their presence, along with other original cast members Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith reprising their roles as Kitty and Red Forman, added a touch of familiarity to the new series.
Kutcher’s decision to step away from the show comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding his and Kunis’s letters of support for Masterson during his trial. Masterson, who played the role of Steven Hyde on ‘That ’70s Show’, was found guilty of raping three women in 2023 and sentenced to 45 years to life in prison.
In their letters, Kutcher and Kunis described Masterson as a role model with exceptional character. Kutcher even argued that Masterson’s daughter should not be deprived of having a present father. These statements drew widespread criticism, as they seemed to downplay the severity of Masterson’s crimes and the trauma experienced by his victims.
The couple’s decision not to return to ‘That ’90s Show’ is likely an effort to distance themselves from the Masterson controversy and its negative impact on their public image. Their absence in future seasons may disappoint some fans, but it is a reflection of the consequences they have faced for their actions.
