Danny Masterson’s Wife, Bijou Phillips, Files for Divorce After 30-Year Rape Sentencing

Bijou Phillips has filed for divorce from Danny Masterson, less than two weeks after the actor was sentenced to 30 years to life for raping two women in 2003.

The filing, filed Monday in Santa Barbara, surprised many because after Masterson’s conviction there was a flurry of headlines suggesting Phillips would support her husband as she had during his years-long legal battle.

“Mrs. Phillips has decided to file for divorce from her husband at this unfortunate time. Her priority remains her daughter. This period has been unimaginably difficult for the marriage and the family. Mr. Masterson was always present for Mrs. Phillips during her most difficult times of her life. Ms. Phillips recognizes that Mr. Masterson is a wonderful father to their daughter,” said Phillips’ attorney, Peter Lauzon. The Hollywood Reporter in a statement.

Masterson was sentenced on September 7 to 30 years to life for the rape of two former members of the Church of Scientology at his Hollywood Hills home in the early 2000s. During the trial, the women described in graphic detail violent attacks after they were served drinks that left them quickly became disoriented.

Masterson – who will be eligible for parole in about 25 years, when he is 72 years old – has denied the allegations. Shawn Holley, an attorney representing him, said the actor will appeal the conviction due to a “number of significant evidentiary and constitutional issues.”

News of the divorce filing was first reported by TMZ.

Masterson and Phillips dated for eight years before marrying in a castle in Ireland in 2011. They share a daughter, born in 2014. They also worked together professionally, after sharing the screen together in 2009. Made for eachotheran independent film that also starred Danny’s brother, actor Christopher Masterson.

Phillips, the daughter of late Mamas and the Papas frontman John Phillips, has worked as an actress, model and singer. After her husband was convicted, a source said People that although Phillips “has had a very difficult time” since he was convicted, a split was not expected. “She loves Danny and has no plans to file for divorce. She will be by his side through all of this.”