In a surprising turn of events, celebrity power couple Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have confirmed that they will not be returning for the second season of “That 90s Show.” The decision comes in the wake of controversy surrounding their support of former co-star Danny Masterson, and the couple has been notably absent from the spotlight since issuing apologies for their actions last year.
Kutcher and Kunis, whose romance blossomed on the set of “That 70s Show” back in 1998, have been keeping a low profile since they found themselves embroiled in controversy. Last year, they were forced to apologize for writing letters in support of Masterson, who was convicted of s*xual assault.
Despite their early connection on the set of “That 70s Show,” Kutcher and Kunis didn’t begin dating until 2012. They tied the knot in 2015 and now have two children together. Fans were thrilled when the duo reprised their roles as Kelso and Jackie for the Netflix spinoff “That 90s Show,” which premiered last year.
While their cameo appearance in Season 1 delighted fans, the couple has decided to step away from the series moving forward. Mila Kunis explained their decision during an interview at an event celebrating the 25th anniversary of “Family Guy,” citing that they felt their characters’ storylines had been sufficiently explored in the first season.
Despite Kunis and Kutcher’s absence, other cast members, including Seth Green, are set to return for the show’s second season. The decision not to return comes after the couple faced backlash for writing letters in support of Masterson during his trial.
The controversy erupted when it was revealed that Kutcher and Kunis had written letters to the judge advocating for leniency in Masterson’s sentencing. Masterson was ultimately found guilty of dr*gging and r*ping two women, and Kutcher and Kunis’ support drew criticism from many who felt their actions were inappropriate given the severity of the charges.
In response to the backlash, Kutcher and Kunis issued a video statement in which they expressed regret for their actions but stopped short of offering a direct apology. The video was met with further criticism, with many accusing the couple of being insincere and performative.
Since then, Kutcher has stepped down as chair of Thorn, the anti-child s*x abuse organization he co-founded with ex-wife Demi Moore. The couple has largely remained out of the public eye, with Kunis’ recent red carpet appearance marking her first public engagement in months.
Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis may not be returning for “That 90s Show” Season 2, but their impact on the series and their enduring connection to fans will surely be felt for years to come.
