Danny Masterson, once a celebrated actor known for his role as the witty and rebellious Steven Hyde in That ’70s Show, has seen his career and financial standing dramatically altered by serious legal battles. His journey from a television star to a convicted felon provides a stark look at how personal conduct can reshape a public figure’s legacy and wealth.
As of 2025, Danny Masterson’s net worth is estimated to be between $4 million and $8 million. This figure represents a significant decline from his peak wealth, reflecting the financial toll of his legal defense and the end of his acting career.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
From Child Model to Television Star
Masterson’s career in the entertainment industry began at a very young age. He started as a child model at just four years old and quickly transitioned into acting. By the time he was a teenager, he had already appeared in over 100 commercials.
His early acting credits included roles in films like Beethoven’s 2nd and the television series Cybill. These experiences paved the way for the role that would define his career and build the foundation of his fortune.
That ’70s Show: The Foundation of His Wealth
Breakthrough Role as Steven Hyde
In 1998, Masterson was cast as Steven Hyde in the hit sitcom That ’70s Show. He appeared in all 200 episodes of the series, which ran for eight successful seasons until 2006. The role made him a household name and a significant earner.
During the show’s peak, Masterson was reportedly earning between $250,000 and $300,000 per episode. This substantial income allowed him to accumulate considerable wealth and make savvy investments, particularly in real estate.
Career Beyond That ’70s Show
Television and Film Projects
After That ’70s Show concluded, Masterson continued to work in television and film. He co-starred with his former castmate Ashton Kutcher in the Netflix series The Ranch from 2016 until 2017, when he was written off the show amid sexual assault allegations.
His other notable appearances include the film Yes Man alongside Jim Carrey and guest spots on shows like Punk’d and MADtv. Alongside his acting, Masterson also pursued a career as a DJ, performing under the name ‘DJ Mom Jeans’.
Real Estate Investments and Property Portfolio
Strategic Property Purchases
Masterson demonstrated a keen eye for real estate early in his career. In 1998, he purchased a home in the Hollywood Hills for $560,000, which he later sold in 2007 for nearly $1.6 million, almost tripling his initial investment.
In 2007, he acquired a larger estate on Hollyridge Drive for nearly $3 million, a property once owned by rock-and-roll legend Chuck Berry. This home would later be used as collateral for his $3.3 million bond. He also invested in a ranch and vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley.
Alternative Income Sources
The Wine Business Venture
As his acting career stalled due to the allegations, Masterson pivoted to a new business venture. In 2018, he started a farm in the Santa Ynez Valley, planting 6,000 vines to produce grapes and wine.
According to pre-sentencing reports, this farm became his primary source of stable income. This venture, along with acting residuals from his past work, helped sustain his finances during his legal battles.
The Financial Impact of Legal Troubles
How Legal Issues Affected His Net Worth
The legal proceedings against Masterson had a catastrophic effect on his finances. His net worth plummeted from an estimated $16 million in 2019 to its current figure. The decline is attributed to substantial legal fees, the loss of acting roles, and a $3.3 million bail payment.
He was formally fired from The Ranch in 2017 and was the only original cast member not to return for the sequel series That ’90s Show. The conviction and subsequent 30-year prison sentence effectively ended any future earning potential from acting.
Comparing Wealth with That ’70s Show Cast
Where He Stands Among Co-Stars
Masterson’s financial downfall is even more striking when compared to the success of his That ’70s Show co-stars. Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have become major Hollywood stars, with net worths estimated at $200 million and $75 million, respectively.
Other cast members like Wilmer Valderrama and Topher Grace also boast fortunes significantly larger than Masterson’s. His current net worth places him among the lowest of the main cast, a stark contrast to his high-earning status during the show’s run.
Current Financial Status and Future Outlook
Following his sentencing, Masterson’s wife, Bijou Phillips, filed for divorce, a move widely seen as a strategy to protect their shared assets from potential civil lawsuits. While incarcerated, his ability to generate new income is virtually non-existent.
His financial future will likely depend on the performance of his wine business and any remaining residuals from his acting career. The story of Danny Masterson’s net worth serves as a cautionary tale about the fleeting nature of fame and fortune in the absence of personal accountability.
