Bijou Phillips, the wife of actor Danny Masterson, has filed for divorce just weeks after Masterson was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for his Los Angeles rape case. The divorce papers, filed in Santa Barbara County Court, list “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the dissolution of the marriage. This move comes after Phillips stood by Masterson throughout the legal battle, dating back to allegations made over six years ago.
In March 2018, reports emerged that Danny Masterson was being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department regarding multiple sexual assault allegations dating back to the early 2000s. Masterson vehemently denied the accusations and alleged that the women came forward only after being contacted by actress Leah Remini for the A&E docuseries, Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath, which aimed to expose the Church of Scientology.
Bijou Phillips’ Support and Court Appearance
Throughout the legal proceedings, Bijou Phillips stood by her husband’s side. She was present in court on May 31 when Masterson was found guilty, and her emotional reaction, including a loud wail, was evident. However, the judge advised her to remain composed or leave the courtroom. At the sentencing hearing, both Phillips and Masterson’s mother appeared visibly upset.
Masterson and Phillips tied the knot on October 18, 2011, in a small town in Ireland. They have a daughter named Fianna Francis Masterson, born on February 14, 2014. In April 2017, Phillips underwent a kidney transplant after dealing with kidney disease for years. Masterson publicly praised her strength, revealing that she had been “slowly dying” due to the disease and that the transplant was successful.
Controversy Surrounding Phillips
In addition to Masterson’s legal troubles, Phillips faced controversy when actor Daniel Franzese accused her of being physically and emotionally abusive during their time filming “Bully” in 2001. Franzese claimed that Phillips repeatedly asked him about his sexual orientation and that she kicked him in the head during filming. He also alleged that Phillips twisted his nipple hard.
In response, Phillips expressed,
I was a teenager and reckless in my behavior. I know Daniel to be a trustworthy and honest person, and to find out through social media that I was not the friend I thought I was to him made me so sad.
I am so mortified by this behavior and have contacted Daniel and apologized to him privately. I am not and never have been homophobic. I have nothing but love for the LGBTQ community and Daniel.
Divorce Filing Details
In her divorce filing, Bijou Phillips listed the date of separation as “TBD” and requested spousal support, attorney’s fees, and the restoration of her legal name to Phillips. She also seeks legal and physical custody of their 9-year-old daughter, Fianna Francis Masterson, while being open to visitation for Masterson.
Bijou Phillips’ decision to file for divorce amidst Danny Masterson’s legal troubles marks a significant development in their relationship. The future of their marriage remains uncertain as they navigate this challenging period in their lives.