Scientology Whistleblower and Emmy Winner Mike Rinder Dies at 69

Rinder, a former high-ranking Scientology official turned critic, passed away from esophageal cancer, leaving a legacy of exposing the organization's abuses.

Mike Rinder, a former senior Scientology executive who became one of its most prominent critics, died on January 5, 2025, at 69 due to esophageal cancer.
Rinder co-created the Emmy-winning docuseries 'Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath,' which shed light on alleged abuses within the Church of Scientology.
He spent decades in Scientology's elite Sea Organization before leaving in 2007 and publicly condemning the organization's practices, including its disconnection policy and alleged culture of abuse.
Rinder documented his experiences in his 2022 memoir, 'A Billion Years,' and co-founded the Aftermath Foundation to support those leaving Scientology.
He is survived by his wife Christie, their son Jack, and stepson Shane, with his blog and advocacy work continuing to serve as a resource for critics of Scientology.

The Hollywood Reporter