The glamorous world of celebrity often seems untouchable, filled with luxury and privilege. Yet, even the most famous individuals can find themselves entangled in the complexities of cults, seeking belonging, purpose, or simply falling prey to manipulation. This exploration delves into the experiences of several celebrities who have navigated the often-turbulent waters of cult involvement, offering a glimpse into the motivations, the trauma, and the resilience of those who have escaped.

Joaquin Phoenix, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Rose McGowan are just a few who have shared their stories. (Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images / Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images / Laurent Viteur/WireImage)

Bethany Joy Lenz's Decade-Long Journey

"One Tree Hill" star Bethany Joy Lenz recently revealed a significant part of her past: a decade-long involvement with a cult. While legal constraints prevent her from disclosing the cult's name, Lenz has hinted at the profound impact of this experience and the subsequent recovery process. Her story underscores the complexities of leaving such organizations and the ongoing challenges faced by survivors.

Bethany Joy Lenz in 1999 and 2020 (Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection/Paul Archuleta)

Lenz with "One Tree Hill" costars Hilarie Burton (left) and Sophia Bush. (David Becker/Getty Images for iHeartRad)

The cast of "One Tree Hill" in 2004. (Theo Wargo/WireImage)

Allison Mack and the NXIVM Saga

The NXIVM case, involving "Smallville" actress Allison Mack, brought the dark underbelly of self-help organizations to light. NXIVM, operating for nearly two decades, targeted affluent individuals with promises of personal growth. However, beneath the surface lay a secret society known as DOS, involving branding, manipulation, and exploitation. Mack's involvement and subsequent guilty plea highlighted the devastating consequences of such organizations.

NXIVM ex-leader Keith Raniere. (YouTube)

Allison Mack. (Reuters)

From Children of God to Hollywood: The Phoenixes and Rose McGowan

The Children of God, a controversial religious group with a history of disturbing practices, ensnared several prominent figures during their childhoods, including Joaquin and River Phoenix, and Rose McGowan. Raised within the group's confines, these individuals experienced a unique and often unsettling upbringing. Their stories shed light on the long-term impact of cult involvement, particularly on young minds.

Children of God members in 1976. (Frederick Thomas Murray/Fairfax Media)

The Phoenix Family in 1983. (Dianna Whitley/Getty Images)

Joaquin Phoenix. (Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

River Phoenix. (George Rose/Getty Images)

Rose McGowan. (Ena Laverty/AFP via Getty Images)

Glenn Close and the Shadow of Moral Re-Armament

Glenn Close's upbringing within the Moral Re-Armament movement, a religious group with strict rules and controlling practices, left a lasting impact on the actress. Her candid accounts of psychological manipulation and the struggle to overcome the ingrained beliefs highlight the profound effects of cult involvement and the importance of healing from such experiences.

Frank Buchman with Mae West in 1939. (Keystone-France/Gamma-Keystone)

Glenn Close. (Cindy Ord/MG23/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue)

Glenn Close. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello, Pool)

Michelle Pfeiffer's Brush with Breatharianism

Michelle Pfeiffer's early encounter with a group promoting breatharianism, the belief that one can survive without food, serves as a reminder of the vulnerability individuals face when seeking guidance and belonging. Pfeiffer's realization that she was involved in a cult underscores the importance of critical thinking and the need to question seemingly benign practices.

Michelle Pfeiffer. (American Broadcasting Companies)

Michelle Pfeiffer. (Joe Maher/Getty Images for Paramount+)

Pfeiffer with Peter Horton. (LGI Stock/Corbis/VCG)

These stories offer a compelling look into the often-hidden world of cults and their impact on individuals, even those in the public eye. They highlight the importance of awareness, critical thinking, and the courage to seek help and healing.