The Fall of a Beloved Character: Uncovering the Truth Behind Danny Masterson's Departure from That '70s Show

That '70s Show, a beloved sitcom that aired from 1998 to 2006, was known for its quirky characters, witty dialogue, and nostalgic value. The show revolved around the lives of a group of high school friends living in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin, in the 1970s. At the center of the show was Eric Forman, played by Topher Grace, and his group of friends, including Donna Pinciotti, Steven Hyde, Fez, Kelso, and Jackie Burkhart. Among the main cast members, one character stood out for his rough-around-the-edges persona and tattoos – Steven Hyde, played by Danny Masterson.

As the show progressed, Steven Hyde became a fan favorite due to his rebellious nature, his love for heavy metal music, and his complicated relationship with Donna Pinciotti. However, behind the scenes, tensions were brewing between Masterson and the show's creators. According to various sources, including an interview with a former That '70s Show writer, Masterson's behavior on set was becoming increasingly erratic. The writer described Masterson as "unprofessional" and "difficult to work with," stating that he would often show up late to rehearsals and filming, and would frequently argue with the show's directors.

The Early Signs of Trouble

In the early seasons of the show, Masterson's behavior was still relatively contained. However, as the series progressed, his antics became more frequent and more public. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, a former cast member revealed that Masterson would often make derogatory comments about women and minorities, which would lead to heated discussions on set. The cast member described the atmosphere on set as "toxic," stating that Masterson's behavior was "creat[ing] a hostile work environment."

Masterson's Rise to Fame

Despite the rumors of his difficult behavior, Masterson's performance as Steven Hyde was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. His portrayal of the troubled and introspective Hyde was a key factor in the show's success, and he became a fan favorite due to his on-screen chemistry with other cast members. However, Masterson's success on the show came with a price – he began to develop a reputation as a ladies' man, which would later become a source of controversy.

The Controversy Surrounding Masterson's Personal Life

As Masterson's career continued to take off, his personal life began to attract attention from the media. In the early 2000s, Masterson was arrested multiple times for various charges, including DUI and disorderly conduct. He also faced allegations of assault and harassment from several women, including a former girlfriend who claimed that he had punched her in the face.

The Fallout from Masterson's Arrests

The repeated arrests and allegations of assault against Masterson had a significant impact on his career. The show's creators began to distance themselves from him, and he was eventually written out of the show. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, a former That '70s Show writer stated that Masterson's behavior on set had become "untenable," and that the show's creators had no choice but to let him go.

The Impact on That '70s Show

Masterson's departure from the show was a significant blow to the series. His character, Steven Hyde, was a key part of the show's success, and his absence was felt by fans and cast members alike. The show continued to air for another season without Hyde, but it never quite regained its original magic.

The Legacy of That '70s Show

Despite Masterson's departure, That '70s Show remains one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time. The show's influence can be seen in many modern sitcoms, and its legacy continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. However, the controversy surrounding Masterson's behavior and personal life serves as a reminder that even the most successful stars can have a dark side.

The Reunion and the Aftermath

In 2020, it was announced that That '70s Show would be revived for a limited series on Netflix. However, the reunion was marred by controversy when it was revealed that Masterson would be reprising his role as Steven Hyde. Many fans and cast members were quick to express their disappointment and outrage on social media, with some calling for Masterson to be replaced.

The End of an Era

The revival of That '70s Show without Masterson marked the end of an era for the beloved sitcom. The show's creators had hoped to recapture the magic of the original series, but without Hyde, the show felt incomplete. The revival was eventually canceled after only one season, and it was clear that the show would never be the same without Masterson's iconic character.

Conclusion

Danny Masterson's departure from That '70s Show was a significant event in the show's history. The controversy surrounding his behavior and personal life had a lasting impact on the show and its fans. While the show continued to air without Hyde, it never quite regained its original magic. The legacy of That '70s Show remains strong, but the story of Danny Masterson's departure serves as a reminder that even the most successful stars can have a dark side.

Key Takeaways:

• Danny Masterson's behavior on set was becoming increasingly erratic in the early seasons of That '70s Show.
• Masterson's personal life was marred by controversy, including arrests and allegations of assault and harassment.
• His departure from the show was a significant blow to the series, and his absence was felt by fans and cast members alike.
• The revival of That '70s Show without Masterson was met with controversy and disappointment from