Danny Masterson files appeal against rape conviction after 30-year prison sentence

Danny Masterson was recently found guilty of raping two women 20 years ago and sentenced to 30 years to life in jail. Photo / AP

Danny Masterson has filed an appeal against his rape conviction.

The 47-year-old actor was found guilty in May of raping two women 20 years ago and in September he was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison - but on November 3, court documents obtained by The Blast show he has formally raised an appeal against his punishment.

Shortly after the That ‘70s Show star was sentenced, his lawyer Shawn Halley vowed to appeal and insisted she was confident Masterson’s conviction would be overturned.

Danny Masterson's victims were both members of the Church of Scientology. Photo / AP

She said in a statement: “The errors which occurred in this case are substantial and unfortunately, led to verdicts which are not supported by the evidence. And though we have great respect for the jury in this case and for our system of justice overall, sometimes they get it wrong. And that’s what happened here.

“Mr Masterson did not commit the crimes for which he has been convicted and we and the appellate lawyers - the best and the brightest in the country - are confident that these convictions will be overturned.”

Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo told the actor during sentencing at the Los Angeles Superior Court that he was “not the victim”.

The judge said: “Mr Masterson, you are not the victim here. Your actions 20 years ago took away another person’s choice and voice. Your actions 20 years ago today were criminal and that’s why you are here.”

The victims, both of whom are former members of the Church of Scientology, attended the hearing in Los Angeles.

Masterson's wife, Bijou Phillips, filed for divorce. Photo / AP

In the wake of Masterson going to jail, his wife Bijou Phillips - who had been by her spouse’s side throughout court proceedings - filed for divorce.

The actor subsequently agreed to give the 43-year-old singer and actress legal and physical custody of their 9-year-old daughter Fianna.