Kirstie Alley
Many of the celebrities live life to its extremes – choose to live lavishly, while others opt for “clean living” or a pristine diet. Others latch onto ideals, political beliefs, and religious practices, such as Scientology.
So what exactly is Scientology, and why does it seem to grab (and hold) the attention of many celebrities? These famous individuals are proud Scientologists, as well as the ones who have walked away from it.
Danny Masterson
Actress Kirstie Alley is perhaps best known for her role as the plucky barmaid Rebecca on Cheers. Despite a successful professional career, Kirstie faced personal struggles, including weight gain and drug addiction.
Allie credits her affiliation with Scientology for helping her to get her health in order and overcome an addiction to cocaine. She admits that some of the Scientology hype might sound “crazy”, but that it has certainly changed her life dramatically for the better.
Bijou Phillips
Masterson’s career was launched with the inception of the famed sitcom, That 70s Show, where he portrays lovable and snide commentator Hyde. The eight-season sitcom catapulted him to fame and other endeavors, such as Mad Men and Yes Man.
Whether his association with Scientology originated with his wife, actress Bijou Phillips, we’ll never know. However, these days Masterson defines his study of the religion as “the pursuit of knowledge…something that is very noble and admirable”.
Laura Prepon
Bijou Phillips grew up in a celebrity household, which gave her a head start on partying, substance abuse, and rubbing elbows with late night socialites. At the tender age of 17, her father sent her to rehab in an attempt to turn her life around.
Today, Bijou is married to practicing Scientologist Danny Masterson, and the two publicly support the teachings and philosophy of founder L. Ron Hubbard. May they continue to rock on together for years to come.
Tom Cruise
Another convert from That 70s Show, Laura Prepon played fiery redhead Donna Pinciotti. Her love of acting began with theater performances in New York, where she played award-winning parts in A Woman Of Property and Ascension Day.
Prepon is on her way to becoming an accomplished Scientologist, with nearly seven courses of study under her belt. She is invested, and she attributes her ongoing success in the entertainment industry to her religious affiliation.
Doug E. Fresh
Tom Cruise is a celebrated and accomplished actor with iconic roles that make him a recognizable face around the world. His marriage to actress Mimi Rogers in 1990 is what initially introduced him to the world of Scientology.
He is Scientology’s most recognizable and influential patron, and his affiliation with the church is a constant. In fact, it is rumored that religious differences prompted ex-wife Katie Holmes to divorce Tom and take custody of their children.
Erika Christensen
Doug E. Fresh has earned a reputation for being an accomplished musician, rapper, and beatboxer. He’s earned him critical acclaim in the music industry and has made his mark on the business with an innovative sound still celebrated today.
He is a proud member of the church of Scientology, having produced singles for use on “The Joy Of Creating”. While he admits that it may not be for everyone, he claims that it has provided tremendous benefits and opportunities for him.
Elisabeth Moss
Erika is one of the few celebrities on the list who was raised a Scientologist from childhood. Her parents converted when they were in their twenties and raised her in accordance with its philosophies and teachings.
She is well known for television roles such including Frasier, 3rd Rock From The Sun, Touched By An Angel, and NBC’s Parenthood. She continues to practice to this day, and will likely pass on the traditions to future generations.
Nancy Cartwright
Moss’s career began in the early 90s. Since then she has earned accolades including two Primetime Emmy awards and two Golden Globe awards for her work on roles in The West Wing, Mad Men, and The Handmaid’s Tale.
Moss turns to the teachings of Scientology to help keep her centered in a volatile industry. She credits her affiliation with the “religion” for helping her to get over her volatile split from SNL actor Fred Armisen.
Juliette Lewis
Anyone who grew up watching prime-time television in the nineties knows the voice of Nancy Cartwright. She is the woman who gave Bart Simpson life through her voice acting for the popular animated series The Simpsons.
Cartwright released a call in 2009 using the voice of Bart Simpson to persuade others to join Scientology’s ranks. Although intended only for those who were already dabbling with its teachings, it was leaked, causing an uproar in Hollywood circles.
Sky Dayton
Juliette Lewis began her career in film and television at the age of fourteen. Upon scoring roles in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Cape Fear, and What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, Lewis won a number of awards for her off-beat, dark portrayals.
Lewis stands by her claim that Scientology has given her practical tools for making life joyful and productive. She maintains that while other religions are restrictive, Scientology is inclusive, placing a focus on purifying body and soul.
Greta Van Susteren
Sky Dayton is an American entrepreneur and investor, credited for founding one of the first Internet service providers, Earthlink. With financial backing from industry giants it was only a matter of time before Dayton’s assets were worth billions.
Dayton credits much of his financial and professional success to L. Ron Hubbard’s teachings. He has an inspirational quote from Hubbard on his website homepage that reads, “Communication is the solvent for all things”.
Jenna Elfman
Greta Van Susteren has been in the public eye for years as a lawyer, news correspondent, and anchor. She is known for her unique approach to interviewing high-profile celebrities and politicians, and she has created a respectable career in journalism.
She and husband John Coale are both Scientologists, and she remains an active advocate of the organization due to their “strong stance on ethics”. Their affiliation has been long-standing, and they’re likely to remain true to their beliefs.
Jason Lee
Jenna Elfman has had a number of interesting life experiences that led her to where she is today. An icon on the hit television series, Dharma And Greg, her life took a few twists and turns before landing the role that would make her a household name.
When Jenna and husband Bohdi Elfman met, she was a practicing Catholic and he was devoutly Jewish. Bodhi introduced her to the world of Scientology after they were married, and the two have been strong;y entrenched in the organization ever since.
Beck
In addition to having several film and television credits, Jason Lee also holds the distinction of professional skateboarder prior to his Hollywood career. He has not lost his passion for the sport; he continues to enjoy skateboard in his downtime.
According to ex-wife Carmen Llewellyn Lee’s passions extend beyond skateboarding and acting, and it seems that he is obsessed with all aspects of Scientology. It was ultimately what led to their divorce, according to her.
Anne Archer
Beck David Hansen, otherwise known as Beck, is an American singer/songwriter. Born and raised in Los Angeles, a variety of early influences caused him to gravitate toward emerging rap and indie styles of music.
This award-winning musician was raised as a Scientologist and continues his practice to this day. “There are whole aspects of its philosophy that people just don’t understand, but it has the incredible ability to help people heal and let go of emotional and mental torment that can lead to addictions”, Beck reports. He continues to practice and is an outspoken advocate at outreach opportunities.
John Travolta
Anne Archer has starred alongside industry giants like Michael Douglas, Christopher Reeve, Glenn Close, Madonna, and Willem Dafoe. Archer and husband William Davis have one son, Tommy, who has risen through the ranks of Scientology.
Anne and William were practicing Christian scientists before their son Tommy took on the role of official spokesman for the church of Scientology. They are all practicing Scientologists and are actively involved in recruiting new members.
Kelly Preston
John Travolta’s decision to join the Scientology organization took place in 1975, during the first rise of his career. Shortly thereafter, he was given two of his most iconic roles in Grease and Saturday Night Fever.
John attributes Scientology’s teachings for helping him to move on after the death of his son Jett and the passing of his wife Kelly Preston in July 2020. He uses his Hollywood influence and philanthropic spirit to help bring others into the church.
Catherine Bell
Kelly Preston was an accomplished actress, and her marriage to John Travolta in 1991 helped to catapult her career. She has over sixty film and television credits to her name, including Twins, Jerry MacGuire, Spacecamp, and The Cat In The Hat.
Until her death in July 2020, she was an advocate and spokesperson for the church, crediting fellow members for helping her through the dark time following son Jett’s death. Preston unfortunately passed away in July 2020 after battling breast cancer.
Peaches Geldof
Catherine Bell’s Scottish-Iranian descent paved the way for some lucrative opportunities in film and modeling. Upon graduation from UCLA, she was discovered by a Japanese modeling agency, which became her entrance into the entertainment industry.
After a brief modeling career, she came to LA to try her hand at acting. She and partner Brooke Daniells are practicing Scientologists living in Hidden Hills, where they’ve been involved in the filming and production of promotional Scientology materials.
Emily Armstrong
Peaches Geldof was an English columnist, television personality and model. Born and raised in the suburbs of London, she attended Queens College before moving to New York City to begin a career in journalism and modeling for Elle magazine.
Geldof dabbled with Scientology, claiming that she was absolutely fascinated by its founding principles and philosophy in general. Unfortunately, Peaches was found dead in her home on April 7th, 2014, having succumbed to a heroin overdose.
Jennifer Aspen
Emily Armstrong gained the attention of Courtney Love, who helped her get into in the music industry by asking her to perform background vocals. She continues to carve out a unique space for herself with the members of her band, Dead Sara.
Armstrong is a practicing member of the church of Scientology and regularly events for the church with partner Cedric Bixler-Zavala. She finds the church’s philosophies to be “welcoming and beneficial” as it pertains to life in the spotlight.
James Barbour
After some small but significant roles, Jennifer Aspen enjoyed her official debut in the entertainment industry with a starring role on Party of Five. She continues to make guest appearances on shows like Boston Legal, Grey’s Anatomy, and Criminal Minds.
Aspen’s association with Scientology is something she continues to speak positively about. She credits her successful career to the knowledge and skills that she has gained through the study and practice of the religion.
Giovanni Ribisi
James Barbour is an award-winning Broadway actor and performer. His most significant roles include those in Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, and A Tale of Two Cities, which earned him a Drama Desk award for Outstanding Actor In A Musical.
Barbour, wife Dana Stackpole, and their two daughters are all practicing Scientologists. Barbour was the target of some scandal around an inappropriate relationship with a minor, and he credits the organization for helping him through a dark time.
Isaac Hayes
Antonio Giovanni Ribisi is an American actor known for his roles in Saving Private Ryan, Avatar, A Million Ways To Die, and Friends. His acting career began with an award-winning role on the sitcom My Name Is Earl.
Ribisi has credited Scientology with giving him the confidence and tools to make his dreams a reality. “I have the ability to comfortably communicate with anyone in any situation and be certain of my own goals”, he stated.
Sonny Bono
Isaac Hayes is one of the most recognizable figures in the music industry, and his influence continues – despite his death in 2008. His contributions ensure that hundreds of industry hopefuls have an opportunity to create and enjoy profitable careers.
Hayes was introduced to Scientology in 1993 and remained an outspoken supporter and advocate of the organization until his death. He appeared on the cover of Scientology’s Celebrity magazine a number of times.
Marisol Nichols
Salvatore, or “Sonny”, was one half of the famous duo, Sonny and Cher. The two iconic artists enjoyed a profitable career in music, releasing such singles like “I Got You Babe” and “All I Really Wanna Do” before going their separate ways in 1975.
Sonny was a member of the church of Scientology for over twenty years, through his musical and political career. Although he had doubts at one point about continuing with the organization, he remained a member until his death.
Eddie Deezen
Nichols was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, setting her sights on a career in acting from a very young age. Today, she is perhaps best known for her prominent television roles on 24 and Riverdale.
Husband Taron Lexton, and mother-in-law Mary Shuttleworth initially introduced her to Scientology. She credits her association with Scientology for helping her overcome a substance abuse issue and bringing more balance to life in general.
Jason Dohring
Edward Harry Deezen enjoys playing the part of the nerdy underdog, and it’s served him well in his career. He has enjoyed breakout roles alongside in Grease as well as award-winning roles on Midnight Madness, I Wanna Hold Your Hand, and Wargames.
Deezen was first introduced to Scientology through John Travolta, and he is grateful for that conversation. While he is not actively recruiting for the church, he says that he enjoys benefits from his study and association with the church.
Michelle Stanford
Jason Dohring plays the role of Logan Echolls on Veronica Mars, and has also been seen in films such as Moonlight, Ringer, and iZombie. He and his wife Lauren have four children, and all are practicing Scientologists.
Dohring is a second-generation Scientologist, following in his father’s footsteps. He continues to be actively involved in promoting and recruiting new members for the church, citing the real-life tools and skills he has learned from its teachings.
Jeff Conaway
Michelle Stanford is a screenwriter, American actress, and media personality. Her television credits throughout the years include roles on The Young And The Restless, General Hospital, and The Stafford Project.
After General Hospital writers began entertaining episodes surrounding a fictitious cult, she stepped away from the show. While we can’t be sure if this conflicted with her beliefs, fans speculate that she disagreed with the vision the producers had.
Milton Katselas
Jeff Conaway was a long-time friend of John Travolta; the two met as young actors on the set of Grease, and they went on to score roles in film and television together. Naturally, he was introduced to Scientology by Travolta.
Conaway had struggled with alcohol and opiate addiction in the past, so the study and practice of Scientology was a welcome change for him. Unfortunately, Conaway passed away from pneumonia and one final battle with painkillers that proved fatal.
Lisa Marie Presley
Famed producer, acting coach, and Broadway producer Milton Katselas ran the Beverly Hills Playhouse for 30 years. Some of his students have said that they felt pressure to join the church of Scientology because he was so passionate about his beliefs
Though he ultimately sought to leave the organized church in later years, he remained loyal until his death in 2008. What could cause him to seek a break with this seemingly solid institution is unclear, but he certainly isn’t alone.
Brad Pitt
The only child of Priscilla and Elvis Presley, Lisa Marie Presley was born into fame and fortune. Strategic collaborations and artistic expression have carved out a unique place for her in an industry that her father once capitalized on.
Raised in the church of Scientology since she was a young child, she made the courageous decision to leave the institution in 2014. “They were taking my heart, my soul, my money, my everything”, she claimed, “I needed to take my life back”.
Priscilla Presley
Who doesn’t know Brad Pitt? From tearing up the screen in Thelma and Louise with his boyish good looks to iconic roles such as Ocean’s Eleven, Seven, and Legends Of The Fall, he is one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors.
Juliette Lewis, an old flame of Pitt’s, got him involved in the religion, but he left it behind after their split. Another reason he left was an unfortunate sweat-lodge experience mandated by the church that nearly proved fatal for him.
Demi Moore
Priscilla Presley was stationed with family in Germany when she met and became infatuated with singer Elvis Presley. After a whirlwind romance, wedding, and child, Priscilla took over many of Elvis’s business investments up to and after his death.
At the request of John Travolta, Priscilla joined the church of Scientology to help cope with her husband’s death, but after nearly forty years, both she and Lisa Mariex cut ties with it. Insiders report that the two made the decision together.
Mimi Rogers
Demi Moore has enjoyed a successful career as an award-winning actress since her debut in 1981. In 1996, she was one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood, grossing impressive sums with Ghost, A Few Good Men, Indecent Proposal, and Striptease.
Kelly Preston and Lisa Marie Presley attempted to recruit her to the church, but then-husband Bruce Willis didn’t want the family embroiled in an all-consuming organization. Demi was steered away and continues to be a formidable force in Hollywood.
Nicole Kidman
Mimi Rogers’ film credits include Gung Ho, Desperate Hours, and The Rapture, regarded by critics as “one of the greatest performances in the history of Hollywood cinema”. Her career is still going strong, with recent roles in Mad Men and Bosch.
Ironically, it was Mimi that introduced ex-husband Tom Cruise to Scientology. After the two separated, she left the church and Tom continued on, getting more and more embroiled in the church’s activities.
Katie Holmes
Another one of Tom Cruise’s love interests, Nicole Kidman was a successful actress and producer before she joined forces with Tom. Nicole looked into Scientology, believing that taking on her husband’s interests would strengthen their relationship.
After her split from Tom, Nicole left the Scientology study behind. She refuses to say anything negative about her experience with Scientology, as the two children that she and Tom have together are still actively involved in the church.
Christopher Reeve
Holmes had an early start in acting and modeling, following in her mother’s footsteps. Tom and Katie met in April of 2005, and after a whirlwind romance, the two were engaged a breathtaking seven weeks after meeting.
She and Tom remained together for nearly seven years before Holmes attempted to leave both Tom and the church, for she feared that he may attempt to abduct Suri. As she walked away from Tom, she took sole custody of their daughter.
Jason Boghe
Christopher Reeve was your quintessential all-American actor best known for his roles in the blockbuster Superman series. The combination of his classical training and his love of stage and screen made him an iconic figure in Hollywood history.
Reeve was a Scientologist for a many years before he examines the ethics behind church promotion. He was disillusioned after using a story from Greek mythology to fabricate a reincarnation story to a trusting audience, and he left the organization.
Patrick Swayze
Boghe began his career in entertainment as a model in Europe, before making his feature film debut, Compromising Positions. He went on to break cinema ground with his portrayal of a quadriplegic in Monkey Shines: An Experiment In Fear.
Boghe was actively involved in the church and its promotion for nearly fourteen years before his exit. He cites that it didn’t make him feel like himself and that he needed a more authentic way of expressing his thoughts and feelings.
Michelle Visage
Patrick Swayze attended school in the Houston area, he jumped at opportunities to receive training in dance, acting, martial arts, and sports. His ambitious goals paid off, and soon he was cast in performance roles.
It was reported that Swayze tried Scientology shortly after the death of his father, but that the association was short-lived. The actor also tried practices of both Buddhism and Transcendental Meditation in an attempt to find more balance in life.
Russell Crowe
Michelle Visage is a singer, songwriter, TV host, and DJ, perhaps best known for her creation of the band Seduction. She put down more permanent roots as a judge and commentator for The RuPaul Show, RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Ireland’s Got Talent.
It is reported that Michelle is a good friend to former Scientologist Leah Remini. After uncovering homophobic philosophies within the organization, she decided it wasn’t in her best interests to continue its study.
Brandy
Russell Crowe is an accomplished actor, singer, musician, and producer. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his moving performances, and he continues to dazzle audiences with his passion and dedication to the craft.
Tom Cruise initially introduced Crowe to Scientology, but after dabbling with its teachings and philosophies, he decided that it wasn’t for him. “It’s great for a certain type of person that needs grounding in life, but it’s not for me”, he noted.
Sharon Stone
Brandy Norwood was born and raised in a musical family, and her interest in music blossomed at a young age. After a number of hit singles, she found more performance opportunities, including appearances on Moesha and I Still Know What You Did Last Summer.
In a 2004 interview, Brandy said that she had tried a few Scientology classes, but ultimately decided that it was not for her. She continues to enjoy success in the entertainment industry independent of any associations with the church.
Jerry Seinfeld
Sharon Stone began her career in the entertainment industry as a fashion model, and she moved on quite quickly to embrace the silver screen as well. She became an internationally known sex symbol after the release of Basic Instinct.
Stone, like many other Hollywood celebrities in the 90s, studied Scientology briefly. However, actor and friend Richard Gere introduced her to concepts of Buddhism, and she has been a faithful participant of its philosophies since 1998.
Neil Gaiman
Jerry Seinfeld is a successful stand-up comedian, actor, screenwriter, and producer. Known for both his off-the-cuff stand-up routines and his long-running sitcom Seinfeld, he has received numerous accolades for both writing and performance.
Introduced to Scientology by his mechanics teacher in high school, Seinfeld took some courses that he claims helped him launch his career. “Communication was key in my business, and Scientology’s courses greatly helped with that”, the comedian states.
Rock Hudson
Neil Richard Gaiman is an accomplished author of short fiction novels, graphic novels, comics, audio theater, and film. Many of his novels have been turned into blockbuster films including Stardust, American Gods, and Coraline.
Neil Gaiman was raised in the church of Scientology, and his father was the chief UK correspondent and promoter. Although he is no longer a practicing member of the church, he still has family members in the organization.
Paul Haggis
Rock Hudson was a sex symbol and one of the most iconic actors of his time. His successful career has lasted nearly four decades and includes such notable performances in Magnificent Obsession, All That Heaven Allows, and Giant.
Rock reportedly interviewed to be a part of the church, but the pressure of the interview got to be too much for him. He excused himself, citing that he needed to go out and feed a parking meter while at a Scientology meeting, and never returned.
Leah Remini
Paul Haggis is a well-known screenwriter, producer, and director known for blockbuster creations such as Million Dollar Baby, Crash, and Quantum Of Solace. He is also credited for long-running television series like Walker, Texas Ranger and Due South.
Haggis was reportedly a member of the church for decades, and he left in 2009 shortly after allegations of sexual assault surfaced. He refers to the organization as a “cult”, and he is glad that he is moving on from that chapter in his life.
Jeffrey Tambor
Leah Remini is an actress and an outspoken activist who has come into the public eye due to her criticism of Scientology. She has enjoyed a successful career as Carrie Heffernan on King Of Queens and alongside Kevin James in Kevin Can Wait.
Remini was raised in the church of Scientology, and after thirty years she made her exit. She claims in both interviews and in her production of Netflix series, Scientology, that the religion and its philosophies were too restrictive.
Diana Canova
Tambor is an actor known for his quirky and perfectly timed delivery in roles such on The Larry Sanders Show and And Justice For All. Talented character and voice-over acting make him a sought-after talent and solid presence on stage and screen.
Tambor also dabbled in Scientology for a bit, taking classes and citing the effectiveness of their courses in helping to improve his career. He is no longer affiliated with the church, yet has positive things to say about his time there.
Candice Bergen
Born into a musical family, Diana Canova Rivero never strayed far from her roots. She now serves as an adjunct professor of vocal studies at Manhattanville College, and she contributes to several school districts, musical groups, and theater programs.
Canova spent some time going through courses in Scientology, and she quickly became disillusioned by the financial obligations of parishioners. She felt as if she was not benefitting from the support and teaching she was receiving any longer.
Michael Fairman
Candice Bergen is an American actress, producer, and fashion model. Securing Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards for her work on Murphy Brown, the talented actress has enjoyed decades of success in the limelight.
It is reported that Bergen was a member of the church of Scientology back in the 60s but left the organization before it rose to prominence in Hollywood circles. She has not given any indication as to why she left.
Larry Anderson
Michael Fairman is well known and respected in the entertainment industry. Some of his many film and television credits include The Young And The Restless, Eight Is Enough, Barnaby Jones, Night Court, Quantum Leap, and Cheers.
Fairman was a long-time member and supporter of Scientology, having been involved in several promotional videos and outreach programs. After a confrontation with official spokesman Tommy Davis and other friends in the organization, he abruptly left.
Don Simpson
Larry Anderson is a magician and TV personality – starting as a humble assistant to magician Mark Wilson, he caught the attention of network executives. His roles include The Six Million Dollar Man, Charlie’s Angels, and The Amazing Spider Man.
According to insider experts, Anderson’s association with the church of Scientology lasted almost 33 years. When he attempted to leave the organization, he became tangled in a conversation with Tommy Davis about financial contributions to the church.
Will Smith
Don Simpson is part of one power duo involving Jerry Bruckheimer. The two conceptualized and produced box office blockbusters such as Flashdance, Beverly Hills Cop, Top Gun, and The Rock, which have grossed nearly $3 billion worldwide.
Don gave Scientology and its courses – aimed at gaining mental, physical, and emotional clarity – a good run. After investing nearly $25,000 in course fees, he decided to leave the organization after seeing no significant improvements in his life.
William Burroughs
Will Smith is one of Hollywood’s leading A-listers, with his box office net worth in the hundreds of millions of dollars. After a quirky start in the music industry and his appearance as The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air, he won over millions of fans.
It has been suggested that Will and Jada have been quiet members of the church for years, but both of them vehemently deny membership. However, Will seems amenable to suggestion when it comes to rubbing elbows with other church members.
Vince Offer
William Burroughs was an American writer and visual artist. His portrayal of the Beat Generation significantly influenced pop culture of the time, and much of his edgy work was semi-autobiographical in nature.
He was involved in the church of Scientology in the 60s, citing that he had received many benefits from its study. He cut ties with the church shortly after he began studies, and the rest of his life was taken over by addiction.
Nazanin Boniadi
Vince Offer is a television personality, entrepreneur, and comedian. In addition to his work on the silver screen, he is a promoter of products such as the ShamWow absorbent towel and the Slap Chop kitchen utensil.
Offer’s split with the church of Scientology was kept quiet – apparently church members prefer it that way. He does say of Leah Remini’s vocal opposition to the organization that she needs to be smart about how she is presenting information.
Peggy Lipton
Nazanin Boniadi is an Iranian-born beauty that had aspirations of acting on stage and screen from a very young age. She has gone on to secure several roles in film including Charlie Wilson’s War, Ironman, and The Next Three Days.
Boniadi began the study of Scientology from a very young age, and through it, she met and started a short-lived relationship with Tom Cruise. After tensions in their relationship grew, she split from Cruise and ended her affiliation with the church.
Cathy Lee Crosby
Peggy Lipton is an American actress and wife of music producer, Quincy Jones. After raising their two children, Rashida and Kidada, she returned to the spotlight and took roles in film and television, including Twin Peaks, Crash, and Popular.
Lipton was linked to Elvis Presley in the 60s, and it was her attempt at recruiting Presley into Scientology that ultimately led to their breakup. Shortly after the relationship ended, Peggy left the church and went back to her Jewish roots.
Leonard Cohen
Cathy Lee Crosby is an American actress, television personality, and professional tennis player. She was active in the sport until 1970, when she had a number of opportunities in television and film roles cross her path.
After a brief tryst with Scientology and its philosophies, Crosby decided that it wasn’t for her. She completed some coursework successfully but never developed a passion for the organization and its hierarchy.
Emilio Estevez
Leonard Cohen was a Canadian singer whose work spans several decades and tackles topics including religion, politics, sexual identity, and social injustices. He has received significant recognition for his stellar contributions to music.
With the wide array of topics that Cohen chose for musical exploration, it makes sense that he might have dabbled in religion. His stop in Scientology was brief but memorable, and he writes about it using coded lyrics in some of his songs.
Estevez is part of a Hollywood royal family; brother to Charlie and son of famed actor Martin Sheen, he had the industry running through his blood. His first roles came with The Breakfast Club, St. Elmo’s Fire, and The Outsiders.
Estevez reportedly has ties to Tom Cruise, and when Tom married Mimi Rogers, he stood in as Cruise’s best man. It makes sense that he dabbled in Scientology for a while, having associated with these two Scientology advocates.