Rumors have long swirled around various celebrities being involved in cults, with names like Andrew Keegan and Will Smith frequently mentioned. These speculations often stem from their associations with unconventional spiritual groups or controversial organizations. Here’s a closer look at 12 celebrities who have been rumored to be part of cults.
Andrew Keegan, known for his role in “10 Things I Hate About You,” faced rumors of being a “cult leader” after founding Full Circle, a spiritual organization. Keegan addressed these rumors on the “Pod Meets World” podcast, explaining that his move to Venice in his early twenties led him to immerse himself in the local culture and community. He and his friends repurposed an old Hare Krishna temple to create a space for gatherings, which led to the formation of Full Circle. Despite the group’s positive community impact, the name and activities led to misinterpretations, branding it as a cult.
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, was also rumored to be involved in a cult. He founded the Self-Realization Fellowship with Sri Daya Mata, a disciple of Paramhansa Ji. Presley was reportedly a frequent visitor and follower of Daya Mata’s teachings. Although he wanted to play a significant role in the group, Daya Mata advised him to focus on his entertainment career, emphasizing that spiritual leadership and entertainment are different paths.
Jared Leto and his band Thirty Seconds to Mars created a stir in 2019 when they invited fans to a retreat in Croatia, which many described as a “cult.” The three-day music festival saw Leto donning white robes, and the band even posted on social media with the caption, “Yes, this is a cult #MarsIsland.”
Joaquin Phoenix has been open about his childhood experience in the Children of God cult. His family left the organization when he was three years old. In a 2014 interview with Playboy, Phoenix shared that his parents initially believed they had found a community that shared their ideals. However, once they realized the true nature of the group, they left.
John Lennon was rumored to be associated with the Hollywood cult Source Family, founded by Father Yod. While there are no concrete details about Lennon’s involvement, it is known that other celebrities like Warren Beatty and Marlon Brando were regulars.
John Travolta has long been linked to Scientology, a controversial organization often labeled as a cult. Travolta has been a prominent member for decades, and his association with Scientology has been a significant part of his public persona.
Kirstie Alley, another well-known Scientologist, was alleged to have been grooming her grandson for the church. She credited Scientology with helping her overcome drug addiction and was reportedly working on a tell-all about her experiences before her death in December 2022.
Oprah Winfrey faced rumors of being part of Scientology, especially after CBS aired a controversial ad during her interview with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Critics argued that promoting Scientology was irresponsible, given its controversial history.
Tom Hanks was the subject of a debunked rumor about being involved in a sex trafficking cult known as the Black Eye Club. The rumor suggested that celebrities and politicians were initiated into the cult through strange rituals, including receiving black eyes.
Toni Braxton endured a difficult childhood in her parents’ cult, Pillar of Truth. The strict religious group imposed severe dress codes and instilled a sense of judgment, anxiety, and guilt in its members. Braxton detailed her experiences in her book, “Unbreak My Heart.”
Will Smith has also been linked to Scientology. Leah Remini, a former Scientologist, claimed that Smith and his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, started a Scientology school. Director Pedro Almodóvar even described Smith’s controversial Oscars speech as reminiscent of a cult leader’s address.
These celebrities’ associations with various spiritual and controversial groups have fueled rumors and speculations about their involvement in cults. While some have openly discussed their experiences, others have remained more private, leaving the public to wonder about the true nature of their affiliations.
Source: MEGA, Vice, Playboy, The Sun, IndieWire
