Ashton Kutcher’s audacious Soho House plans… as insiders whisper about ‘ulterior motive’

by

Initially, Ashton Kutcher gained popularity for his character as the lovable ladies’ man, Michael Kelso, on That ’70s Show. However, his fame seems to have dwindled over time. Now, it appears that his business investments could potentially help him regain success.

On a Monday post on Instagram, Kutcher shared with his 4.9 million followers that, following 15 years as a proud Soho House member, he’s now investing to aid in the company going private, which is part of a $2.7 billion deal being spearheaded by MCR Hotels based in New York and Apollo, a private equity firm.

Kutcher, upon his board membership, characterized the private members’ club as a “global creative haven, a sanctuary, and a platform for fostering friendships.

Over the past few years, Soho House, once known for its exclusive atmosphere cherished by high-profile celebrities, has faced financial difficulties and member dissatisfaction due to perceptions that it’s lost some of its elite charm.

Initially thriving on London’s Greek Street, the prestigious brand witnessed a global expansion. However, over time, many customers began to feel that the glitz and selective allure they had been spending a fortune on no longer existed.

In a way reminiscent of Soho House, it appears my star has dwindled somewhat in more recent times. Once known as the epitome of Hollywood’s golden youth, I’ve found myself grappling with rumors concerning domestic strife with my beloved wife Mila Kunis, following criticism for standing by Danny Masterson and maintaining a friendship with Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs.

Currently, we have exclusive insight into the sentiments of insiders regarding Kutcher’s significant investment, and whether it may serve to rejuvenate his image in Hollywood. Additionally, we uncover the true motivation behind his return to the entertainment industry.

A source close to the situation shared with Daily Mail that Ashton Kutcher perceives himself as a shrewd businessman, even a genius, following his substantial earnings from That ’70s Show and Two and a Half Men. Over time, Kutcher has earned the title of financial expert due to his early investments in ventures such as Uber, Airbnb, Spotify, and Skype, which have made him extremely wealthy.

Nevertheless, this most recent agreement serves a purpose beyond mere profit-making. An insider disclosed that although Kutcher intends to carry on acting, his reputation has been slightly marred for one reason or another. As a result, he’s finding it challenging to secure directors eager to have him on their projects, which is the primary motivation behind the Soho House deal.

According to an inside source, with a possible return to acting on the near future and several projects underway, he plans to seize the opportunity to assume control over Soho House, aiming to win favor among influencers, young entrepreneurs, and influential figures in Hollywood. His ultimate goal is to restore his former prominence by becoming relevant once again.

The agreement, with its opportunities for film and television projects, is also designed to ensure that he matches his actress spouse in status. A source confided that although Kunis already has substantial wealth from her work on Family Guy, she desires the satisfaction of feeling like she’s still making valuable contributions.

The source added that although money is pleasant and they appear to possess an abundance of it, what he truly yearns for is the influence he once wielded. It seems he believes his involvement with Soho House might help him regain that influence.

Kutcher may be investing to shift the narrative that he and Kunis have been dealing with lately, due to their past support for Danny Masterson during the rape allegations against him. The couple, who are parents to Wyatt (10) and Dimitri (8), were subjected to significant criticism following their letters of support for Masterson prior to his 30-year prison sentence in 2023.

Subsequently, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, who was once a close associate of Kutcher, found himself facing federal sex trafficking allegations a year later, which he was eventually acquitted of. Following the controversies that ensued from these events, whispers about their split began to circulate, however, it appears they have managed to navigate through the reported turbulence.

Regardless of the ongoing debates, the actor from Your Place or Mine isn’t retreating from public view. In fact, he’s returning to the limelight with his recent business deal, although this time behind the scenes. Karen Kessler, the CEO and founder of crisis communications firm Kessler PR Group, has shared with Daily Mail that she thinks it’s a ‘shrewd decision,’ as ‘Kutcher is an established figure in investment circles, boasting a successful track record.’

Although Kutcher won’t appear on the red carpet, he’ll mingle with his colleagues instead. It’s essential for them to gain his approval if they wish to take advantage of Soho House.

1. Kessler explained that now he has added Soho House to his portfolio, he can engage the influencer community as he mingles, since they become his captive audience.
2. Kessler stated that in the celebrity world, reputational damage can be fleeting: a successful investment, a popular movie, some wit in an interview, and associating with the right individuals are the steps to recovery.

His most recent investment might not only generate profits for him… it may also help him achieve his dreams and return to the big screen.

To begin with, Soho House initially catered to individuals in creative fields, acting as a hub for networking. Swiftly drawing celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Kendall Jenner, George and Amal Clooney, David and Victoria Beckham, Tom Cruise, Taylor Swift, and Dua Lipa towards it.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly had their first date at a Soho House in London, and later enjoyed a stay at Soho’s Cotswolds Farmhouse – a place also cherished by Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. Celebrities often find relaxation at these venues, where photographing inside the premises is prohibited. Instead, guests capture memories within photo booths as souvenirs.

In various cities like New York, Miami, Austin, Chicago, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Barcelona, Paris, and others, the brand now operates in a total of 46 locations. Some critics argue that this rapid expansion may have been too hasty. These establishments typically feature communal spaces, restaurants, and cafes, with some even offering cinemas, small music venues, and rooftop pools boasting stunning city vistas.

Although Ashton Kutcher’s investment is advantageous for him, it’s uncertain how members who shell out over $5,000 yearly for access to all properties will respond. Executive consultant Bill Berman expressed to Daily Mail that ‘members may put up with leadership turmoil if the fundamental experience remains outstanding.’

Indeed, I can’t help but echo Berman’s sentiments. If a leader fails to demonstrate authentic dedication towards the shared ideals of our beloved community, you can bet your last dollar that we, the passionate members, will sense it and promptly jump ship.

The Daily Mail has contacted reps for Kutcher for comment.  

Read More

2025-08-22 15:51