Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have found themselves in an unexpected situation, contrary to their seemingly untarnished public image: they are issuing apologies. Celebrity Apology: Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis
Their letters to Judge Charlaine Olmedo, sent before her sentencing of their “That ’70s Show” co-star, Danny Masterson, to 30 years to life for two counts of rape, have gained widespread attention after being obtained by independent journalist Tony Ortega. These letters, as well as their subsequent apology video, exude an uncomfortable level of self-confidence that has made many uncomfortable.
Celebrity Apology: Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis
Kunis somberly states, “We stand by victims. We have consistently done so through our work and will continue to do so in the future.” However, presenting mitigating information about a friend in an attempt to reduce his sentence does not align with the concept of supporting victims. Moreover, Kunis’ assertion that the letters were not meant to question the legitimacy of the jury’s verdict clashes with the letters’ repeated emphasis on Masterson’s aversion to drug use. It appears as if Kutcher and Kunis came close to suggesting that it was impossible for Masterson to have used date-rape drugs in the two convicted cases. While mitigation is one thing, revisiting the legal proceedings is another.
The apology video itself provides an unusual glimpse into contemporary fame. Both stars appear disheveled as if they have just woken up, with Kutcher looking unshaven and untidy. If the goal was to offer an authentic look into their lives, it misses the mark, feeling more like a forced attempt akin to a hostage video. Their scripted delivery, taking turns speaking paragraphs, leaves them both feeling uneasy. Surprisingly, Kutcher comes across as the more polished speaker, possibly because he was assigned the less contentious parts of the script. Kunis adopts a more solemn, documentary-like tone as she lists their respect for the legal system and its judgment, while Kutcher maintains a conversational tone as if explaining things to his children. They didn’t edit out Kunis turning off the camera, as from their perspective, it signified the end of the conversation.
Neither of them anticipated that these letters would become public, and they now find themselves in a more uncomfortable position than during the trial, as the workplace where they met on “That ’70s Show” is being reexamined retrospectively. So far, they’ve gracefully transitioned from teen idols to mature adult stars, often portrayed with sentimental affection due to their reunion years after their initial co-starring roles. Previous bumps in their relationship, such as Demi Moore’s critical comments in her 2019 memoir, were smoothed over as Kutcher continued with his career. However, in recent years, established notions about celebrities have been reevaluated, and Kutcher and Kunis have opened themselves up to scrutiny. Past interviews from their “‘70s Show” days are being scrutinized for any signs of uncomfortable sexualization on the set, especially since Kunis began working there as a minor.
While this scrutiny may sometimes be excessive, such as referencing a lighthearted 2002 video where the now-married actors joked about a kiss, it serves as a counterweight to what Kutcher and Kunis are attempting to convey. They are facing the reality that even movie stars no longer have the power to shape their own narratives in today’s world.
Celebrity Apology: Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis