The Church of Scientology, founded by American author L. Ron Hubbard in 1953, is widely regarded as one of the most controversial and secretive religions in the world. Over the years, the church has attracted numerous high-profile individuals, including celebrities, politicians, and industry leaders, and operates special centers known as Celebrity Centers. While Tom Cruise and other outspoken celebrity Scientologists are widely recognized, many other well-known personalities also practice the faith and credit it for their success.
Tom Cruise Is A Vocal Follower of Scientology
Tom Cruise’s connection to Scientology is widely recognized and well-documented. As a prominent Hollywood actor, he has become the most prominent representative of this controversial faith, despite the fact that many other well-known figures, such as John Travolta and Elizabeth Moss, are also members.
Cruise revealed his involvement with the Church of Scientology in 1990, and in a subsequent interview with Barbara Walters in 1992, he confirmed his membership. Cruise initially joined the church in the mid-1980s, where he met Mimi Rogers, his first wife, who had grown up in the religion due to her father’s involvement. Rogers became a highly regarded “auditor” for the church due to her extensive experience with Scientology.
Other Celebrities Who Follow Scientology
Although Cruise is the most high-profile Scientologist, there are many others who belong to the faith and have achieved success in their respective fields. Despite the controversy and criticism surrounding Scientology, its influence on Hollywood and the wider world remains significant.
Kirstie Alley
Kirstie Alley, who was raised Methodist, joined the Church of Scientology in 1979. She credits the religion with helping her overcome addiction and advance to high levels of spiritual attainment. Alley donated $5 million to the church in 2007 and has spoken publicly about how Scientology has strengthened her character and sense of accountability.
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Catherine Bell
Actress Catherine Bell was raised Catholic and attended a Catholic high school in Los Angeles. She is now a practicing Scientologist and has achieved a clear condition in the religion. Bell is a supporter of Scientology-affiliated organizations, including the Hollywood Education and Literacy Project and the Citizens Commission on Human Rights. She appeared in a Scientology music video alongside other high-profile members of the church, such as Isaac Hayes and Jenna Elfman.
Isaac Hayes
Isaac Hayes, the late singer, and actor, became involved with Scientology in 1993 and promoted the religion through blurbs for its books. He hosted a radio program in New York City and became a client of a vegan raw food chef who was also a Scientologist. Hayes appeared in the Scientology film Orientation and was present at the 30th-anniversary celebration of the church’s investigative news journal, Freedom Magazine. Along with fellow Scientologist Doug E. Fresh, Hayes recorded the album The Joy of Creating in 2001.
Elisabeth Moss
Elisabeth Moss identifies herself as a Scientologist and feminist. Moss has been vocal about defending her beliefs, particularly when it comes to criticism of Scientology’s practices. In one instance, Moss took to Instagram to respond to a fan who questioned whether her role in the show The Handmaid’s Tale made her reconsider her affiliation with Scientology.
Moss argued that the fan’s description of both Scientology and the show’s dystopian society, Gilead, as believing that “all outside sources are wrong or evil is actually not true at all”. Moss has also expressed her belief in religious freedom and tolerance, as well as equal rights for people of all races, religions, and creeds. Despite criticism and controversy surrounding her religious beliefs, Moss remains a successful actress and continues to defend her beliefs.
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Chick Corea
Corea’s musical approach was greatly influenced by Scientology in the 1970s. He aimed to connect with the world and make meaningful music. Corea introduced Stanley Clarke to the movement and collaborated with him on the album Space Jazz: The soundtrack of the book Battlefield Earth, a 1982 release based on L. Ron Hubbard’s novel.
Doug E. Fresh
Fresh, a well-known musician, is affiliated with the Church of Scientology and performed at the Scientology Celebrity Center’s Anniversary Gala in 2004. He contributed to The Joy of Creating, a Scientology-based album featuring other artists such as Isaac Hayes and Chick Corea.
