After That ’90s Show arrived on Netflix, some fans of That ’70s Show were left wondering what might have happened with one main character from the original series. There are many stars from That ’70s Show in the new spinoff series, and that includes Kurtwood Smith and Debra Jo Rupp in recurring roles as Red and Kitty Forman. Nearly all of the young cast from the original show also make special appearances, with cameos from Topher Grace (Eric), Laura Prepon (Donna), Mila Kunis (Jackie), Ashton Kutcher (Kelso), and Wilmer Valderrama (Fez).
Danny Masterson’s Hyde is noticeably absent, and that wasn’t a surprise, as it was known the actor would not be involved. During production, Masterson was scheduled to go to trial for sexual assault charges, and that kept him from getting invited back for That ’90s Show. The new series does not so much as mention Hyde in passing, leaving it a mystery as to what became of the character. However, while speaking with Vulture, Debra Jo Rupp shared her theory about Hyde’s whereabouts in the 1990s.
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Some fans have speculated that Hyde could be in prison during That ’90s Show, which is something even the character himself predicted about his future in That ’70s Show. But perhaps that explanation may have been too reminiscent of the criminal trial Masteron was involved with, finding it better not to call more attention to that situation. When the incarceration theory was suggested to Rupp, she offered a response that shows that she prefers to keep things more vague.
“I think Hyde is traveling overseas somewhere and involved in some conspiracy theory.”
“He’s involved in some political thing. Let’s say that.”
Danny Masterson Wasn’t Able to Join His Former Co-Stars
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Masterson’s trial ultimately ended in a hung jury, but a new trial was scheduled to happen in March. It remains to be seen what the outcome of that trial will be, but if convicted on all counts, the actor faces more than four decades in prison. For his part, Masterson has steadfastly denied the allegations ever since they first went public in 2017. At that time, he was co-starring with Ashton Kutcher in the Netflix series The Ranch, and he had been fired from the show when the allegations hit the press. Masterson released a statement after his firing condemning Netflix for the decision.
“I am obviously very disappointed in Netflix’s decision to write my character off of The Ranch.,” his statement read. “From Day 1, I have denied the outrageous allegations against me. Law enforcement investigated these claims more than 15 years ago and determined them to be without merit. I have never been charged with a crime, let alone convicted of one.”
He added, “In this country, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, in the current 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.”
You can stream That ’90s Show on Netflix.
