Ep 6. Scientology and Celebrity: The Betrayal of Paul Haggis (#202)

In Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath, season 2 episode 6, titled "Scientology and Celebrity: The Betrayal of Paul Haggis," the series delves into the story of Academy Award-winning writer and director, Paul Haggis. Haggis, who was once a devoted member of Scientology, famously left the organization in 2009 and has since become one of its most outspoken critics.

The episode begins with a look at Haggis' early life and career, including his work on hit TV shows like "thirtysomething" and "Walker, Texas Ranger." We see how he was introduced to Scientology in the 1970s and how it became an important part of his life. Haggis' son, Josh, is also interviewed and discusses his upbringing in the church.

However, as Haggis became more involved with Scientology, he began to question its practices and beliefs. He was troubled by reports of abuses within the church, including the mistreatment of members who dared to question its teachings. Haggis also became aware of the organization's aggressive tactics towards its critics and former members.

The episode features interviews with several former Scientologists who worked with Haggis, including Mike Rinder and Amy Scobee. They discuss the intense pressure put on members to recruit new converts and to donate large sums of money to the organization. They also reveal the tactics used by Scientology to silence criticism, including the practice of "fair game," which allows the church to destroy the lives of those it sees as enemies.

As Haggis began to speak out against Scientology, he became the target of attacks by the church. In the episode, we hear from those who were involved in efforts to discredit him, including former church spokesman Tommy Davis. Haggis was also the subject of a smear campaign involving claims of sexual misconduct, which he vehemently denies.

The episode takes a closer look at the role of celebrities within Scientology, including the church's close relationship with actors Tom Cruise and John Travolta. Haggis himself was once a vocal supporter of the organization and helped to recruit several high-profile members. However, he now believes he was deceived by the church's promise of spiritual enlightenment and the benefits of being a celebrity member.

Overall, "Scientology and Celebrity: The Betrayal of Paul Haggis" provides a compelling and often disturbing look at the inner workings of Scientology, as well as the ways in which the organization uses its power and influence to manipulate and control its members. Through interviews with Haggis and those who worked with him, the episode exposes the harm done by the church and the bravery of those who have spoken out against it.