Scientology spotlight: Danny Masterson, Tom Cruise and Leah Remini illuminate Hollywood church drama
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Danny Masterson’s recent rape trial and convictions shined a new light on Scientology, the somewhat secretive religion favored by a few of the biggest and brightest stars in Tinseltown.
Developed by L. Ron Hubbard, the ultimate goal of Scientology is “true spiritual enlightenment and freedom for the individual” through the realization of spiritual salvation and brotherhood with the universe, per the organization.
Masterson and his actress wife, Bijou Phillips, belong to the church, in addition to his actor brother, Christopher Masterson and half-siblings, Alanna Masterson and Jordan Masterson.
Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Jenna Elfman and the late Kirstie Alley have been staunch allies of the controversial religion through the years.
No other church members aside from Danny Masterson were implicated or charged with criminal conduct in connection with the victims’ rape allegations.
The church of Scientology was highlighted in the rape retrial of Danny Masterson, and that inclusion was slammed by the organization after the actor was found guilty Wednesday.
Masterson, 47, was found guilty on two counts of forcible rape. The jury was hung on a third charge. A jury of seven men and five women deliberated for eight days before reaching the verdicts.
The former “That 70s Show” star was accused of drugging the victims’ drinks in order to rape them.
The accusers claimed they were hesitant to file charges due to the church’s alleged strict protocols against public involvement with member issues; all three women were members at the time.
“The church taught his victims, ‘Rape isn’t rape, you caused this, and above all, you are never allowed to go to law enforcement,’” Deputy District Attorney Ariel Anson told the jury during the trial. “In Scientology, the defendant is a celebrity, and he is untouchable.”
Content retrieved from: https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/scientology-spotlight-danny-masterson-tom-cruise-leah-remini-illuminate-hollywood-church-drama.
