Last updated on: October 30, 2025
If you came of age in the late ’90s or early 2000s, chances are you’ve had at least one good laugh at the expense of a Danny Masterson character. He’s one of those guys who never really attempted to upstage anyone, but somehow his characters just lingered. Perhaps it was the snarky smirk, the sunglasses that howled “too cool to care,” or the manner in which he said his lines like he was privy to a joke the rest of us weren’t.
Danny Masterson’s TV career wasn’t spent playing a dozen roles annually. Rather, it was spent playing a few iconic shows that made an impression—shows you never missed, surprise guest spots, and characters that felt like that one friend we all begrudgingly wished we could have included in our clique.
So, let’s stroll down memory lane. Here are the Top 5 Danny Masterson TV Shows—the ones that had us giggling, raised an eyebrow, and reminded us why TV characters linger long after the credits roll.
1. That ’70s Show (1998–2006)
You can’t discuss Danny Masterson without discussing That ’70s Show. It’s like trying to discuss pizza without cheese—just can’t be done.
Set in a small Wisconsin town in the 1970s, the show was all about six teenagers hanging out, growing up, and occasionally getting into trouble. And right in the middle of it all was Steven Hyde. That guy. The sarcastic rebel with the mop of curly hair and shades that he wore like armor.
Where Eric Forman (Topher Grace) was the anxious, rule-abiding heart of the gang, Hyde was the soul. He didn’t believe in the government, he didn’t believe in school rules, and he had the best one-liners in the room. Masterson’s deadpan delivery made even the most mundane lines iconic.
We all had a Hyde. Perhaps you were a Hyde—the one who eye-rolled at authority, who could detect nonsense, and who—beneath the rough exterior—was incredibly loyal to friends.
That ’70s Show was more than a sitcom. It was a moment in pop culture. It made stars of Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, and Laura Prepon. But Hyde? Hyde brought the edge—and that’s thanks to Masterson.
2. The Ranch (2016–2018)
Fast-forward ten years, and Danny Masterson reappeared—this time on Netflix and alongside Ashton Kutcher again. For fans of That ’70s Show, watching them together in The Ranch felt like reuniting with old friends.
The series had a different vibe. Instead of suburban basements, we were in rural Colorado, following Colt Bennett (Kutcher) as he returned home to his family’s struggling cattle ranch.
Masterson played Jameson “Rooster” Bennett, Colt’s older brother. Rooster was everything his name suggested—laid-back, sarcastic, and always quick with a joke. He balanced Colt’s drama with humor and a touch of brotherly wisdom.
The chemistry between Masterson and Kutcher echoed their Hyde-and-Kelso days but matured into a new setting. Rooster added warmth and humor that made The Ranch feel less like a sitcom and more like watching family banter around the dinner table.
3. Haven (2011–2012)
Surprising many fans, Masterson stepped into the world of supernatural drama with a guest role on Haven, based on a Stephen King novel.
The show followed a Maine town full of mysteries, and Masterson appeared in Season 2 as Anderson Harris. His role was not massive, but it was memorable. Gone was the sarcastic Hyde smile or Rooster cool factor—this time, he leaned into suspense and intrigue.
It proved something important: Masterson wasn’t just a sitcom actor. He could step into a thriller setting and keep you hooked.
4. Men at Work (2012–2014)
Back to comedy! In this TBS sitcom, Masterson starred as Milo Foster, a man trying to rebuild his life after a breakup while working at a men’s magazine in New York.
Surrounded by quirky friends, Milo’s storylines revolved around dating mishaps, workplace humor, and figuring out who he was meant to be.
It felt relatable. Many viewers saw themselves in Milo—struggling with love and career at the same time. As the grounded “straight man” to eccentric co-stars, Masterson kept the comedy real and down-to-earth.
Men at Work may not have reached the iconic level of That ’70s Show, but it gave Masterson a chance to shine as a lead character in his own right.
5. Cybill (1996–1998)
Before That ’70s Show, Danny Masterson showed up on the sitcom Cybill. The series starred Cybill Shepherd as a struggling actress, and Masterson played Justin Thorpe, the boyfriend of her daughter, Zoey.
It wasn’t a huge role, but it was important. This was one of Masterson’s first chances to show off his comedic side on a primetime sitcom. Looking back, you can already see hints of the timing and attitude he later brought to Hyde.
For fans, Cybill is a fun reminder that every actor starts somewhere—and for Masterson, this was the stepping stone that led straight to his breakout role in That ’70s Show.
Danny Masterson’s Influence on TV
Looking back, it’s clear Danny Masterson had a gift for creating characters that stuck. Whether as a ’70s rebel, Colorado rancher, or New York writer, he always gave audiences someone to root for—or laugh with.
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Hyde was the sarcastic best friend.
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Rooster was the protective, funny brother.
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Milo was the relatable guy juggling life.
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And his guest roles? Proof he could surprise us anywhere.
Even without hundreds of roles, the ones he did take left a mark. That ’70s Show still gets binged. The Ranch still gets talked about. That kind of staying power is rare.
FAQs About Danny Masterson’s TV Shows
What is Danny Masterson best known for? Steven Hyde in That ’70s Show.
Was Danny Masterson in any Netflix shows? Yes—he played Rooster Bennett in The Ranch.
Did he ever appear outside sitcoms? Yes! His roles in Haven and Royal Pains showed his range.
What is his most-watched show? That ’70s Show still reigns supreme.
What role did he play in Men at Work? Milo Foster, a writer navigating life, love, and career after a breakup.
Final Thoughts
Danny Masterson’s TV career may not be packed with dozens of roles, but the ones he chose were unforgettable.
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Hyde gave us sarcasm and rebellion.
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Rooster gave us warmth and laughter.
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Milo gave us relatability.
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His guest spots reminded us he could surprise when he wanted.
Sometimes, a few strong roles matter more than a full résumé. And for Masterson, those top five shows are the proof.
So next time you’re scrolling Netflix or flipping through reruns, maybe revisit one of these shows. Chances are, you’ll find yourself laughing with Hyde in the basement—or smirking at Rooster’s latest wisecrack.
Because iconic TV characters stay with you. Forever.
