From hot Hollywood stars to legendary music icons, a number of famous people have stepped on the wrong path, from red carpets to concrete prison cells. Some embezzled millions, others were caught red-handed doing some vile things, but in the end, they were all guilty of heinous crimes.
Here are some of the most infamous stars currently serving time behind cold steel bars.
1. Joe Exotic—22 years in prison
The Tiger King’s Joe Exotic made headlines worldwide for his feud with a renowned animal rights activist, Carole Baskin. Joe’s rivalry with Baskin led him down a dark path, resulting in a conviction for paying hitmen to kill her and charges of animal cruelty for allegedly killing tigers and selling others illegally. In 2019, Joe was found guilty on 17 animal cruelty counts and two attempted murder-for-hire charges, landing him a 22-year sentence, later reduced by a year.
2. Danny Masterson—30 years to life in prison
Known for That ’70s Show, Danny Masterson’s life unraveled after sexual assault allegations surfaced in 2017, with incidents traced back to the early 2000s. The allegations resulted in his dismissal from The Ranch and sparked controversy due to the involvement of Scientology, of which both Masterson and some accusers were members. After a mistrial, a second jury convicted him in 2023, resulting in a 30-year-to-life sentence.
3. Ian Watkins—29 years in prison
You might remember the 2000s indie-emo-rock band Lostprophets. They had millions of fans worldwide, but it all came to naught when the frontman Ian Watkins’ career ended with shocking charges. After arrests for illegal substances, police found disturbing content involving minors on his computer, revealing a history of abuse. In 2013, he pleaded guilty to multiple charges, getting a 29-year sentence. The mothers of two of his victims also received lengthy sentences for aiding him.
4. Michael Jace—40 years to life in prison
The Shield actor Michael Jace shocked Hollywood when he murdered his wife, April, in 2014. Following her request for a divorce, Jace shot her when she came home after picking up their kids from baseball practice. He even made fun of her love for running as he attacked her. Jace then called 9-1-1 to report his actions. In 2016, the court sentenced him to 40 years to life for his crime.
