Netflix Fires Danny Masterson From The Ranch Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Danny Masterson is leaving The Ranch. While being investigated over allegations of sexual assault by four different women, Netflix has decided to fire the actor. "As a result of ongoing discussions, Netflix and the producers have written Danny Masterson out of The Ranch," a Netflix spokesperson said in a statement. "[Monday] was his last day on the show, and production will resume in early 2018 without him."

Following the news, Masterson released a statement regarding Netflix's decision to let him go. "I am obviously very disappointed in Netflix's decision to write my character off of The Ranch," he told The Huffington Post. "From day one, I have denied the outrageous allegations against me. I have never been charged with a crime, let alone convicted of one. In this country, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, in the current political climate, it seems as if you are presumed guilty the moment you are accused. I understand and look forward to clearing my name once and for all."

The comedy, which also stars Masterson's former That '70s Show costar, Ashton Kutcher, is currently in the middle of production for the third season. Masterson's character, Jameson "Rooster" Bennett, will still appear through the second half of season two, which will debut on Dec. 15. Masterson also serves as an exec producer for the show, though Netflix has yet to address whether or not he will stay on board.

Netflix's decision to fire Masterson comes just on the heels of Kevin Spacey's exit from House of Cards. Following Spacey's own sexual harassment and assault allegations, Netflix decided to sever ties with the actor and resume production for its final season without him.