Cult Chic.

It seems that nowadays, the media is swirling with stories about Hollywood celebrities and political figures, often revolving around their alleged- and often disturbing- secret lives. From the resurgence of Rothschild conspiracy theories to rumours and revelations about the private lives of the rich and famous, it’s easy to believe that Hollywood harbours even more shocking truths beneath this surface.

The Roots

   Speculation regarding what takes place behind the scenes in the entertainment industries is nothing new. Conspiracy theories such as that of the Illuminati or the lizard people have circulated in highly antisemitic and alarmist circles for decades. The notion of Jewish people as scheming oligarchs seems to act as a convenient deflection from the very real and public exploits of the U.S. government. Still, the idea that Hollywood itself has a cult-ish history may hold some merit.

 Real Cults and Their Influence

  Cults are far more common than many might think. Experts estimate that there are about 10,000 religious cults operating in the United States alone. Among them, the Church of Scientology arguably remains the most prominent in the public psyche. Scientology, still thriving today, heralds numerous Hollywood stars such as Nancy Cartwright, John Travolta, and, most famously, Tom Cruise. Its influence on film and television is undeniable, as the organisation continues to recruit new members and bolster its cultural presence.

Hollywood Eccentricity

   Hollywood’s surrealist and eccentric aesthetic has also contributed to its suspicions and fuelled conspiracy theories. Events like the Rothschilds’ 1972 Surrealist Ball or Truman Capote’s 1966 masked Black and White Ball have become iconic symbols of this opulence and secrecy. These moments feed into the narrative that Hollywood might be harbouring something more insidious. An iconic film which has amplified this perception is Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut, presenting the intersection of wealth, mystery, and rituals in ways that invoke endless misgivings.

Accountability

   Scarcely a moment passes without shocking allegations emerging about some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. With P Diddy’s infamous parties and Jeffrey Epstein’s island, as well as the Harvey Weinstein scandal and the oddities surrounding Trump’s newest posse, it’s clear that the industry often works to shield its highest earners from accountability.

 Harmful Speculation

  At the same time, baseless rumours frequently circulate about the causes behind certain celebrity deaths. This aspect, I find, is particularly disrespectful and ignorant. While conspiracy theories might make some feel more comfortable than confronting the harsh truths, they often distract from the very real issues of addiction and mental health struggles that many of these individuals faced.

My Conclusion

   After reflecting on this, one thing is clear: it’s more than complicated. Rather than fixating on sensationalist narratives, perhaps we should convert our attention to the tangible concerns right in front of us. Scientology remains a powerful and dangerous organisation that continues to thrive unchallenged; similarly, the entrenched culture of patriarchy and sexual harassment within the industry demands immediate dismantling. 

   So, I leave you with this question: Does the entertainment industry need further investigation? Or is it simply an avant-garde expression with nothing truly sinister beneath the surface?

   Thank you for taking your time to read this week’s issue of LVIII. If you want to join the conversation about Hollywood and cults, DM me on my Instagram page @/lviii.uk, or tag our Twitter in your tweets sharing your thoughts!