African-American Actresses Who Are (Were) in the Cults

African American actresses have explored a variety of spiritual and religious organizations during their time in the entertainment industry. Some of these prominent women were born into high control groups while others joined influential organizations like the Church of Scientology after finding fame. These connections often generate significant media coverage and public interest regarding the impact of these groups on the performers’ lives. This list examines several high profile figures who have documented or reported associations with organizations frequently categorized as cults or restrictive groups.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith has been a subject of intense speculation regarding her ties to the Church of Scientology for several years. She reportedly established a school that utilized the educational teachings of the organization and its founder. Many former members of the group have identified her as a practitioner of its beliefs in various interviews. The actress has stated that she enjoys studying various world religions and has not officially joined the church as a full member. Her career spans decades with roles in ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘Gotham’.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant was raised within a group known as the Church of Bible Understanding which many former members have described as a cult. She spent much of her childhood following the strict rules and communal living requirements of the organization. The actress has spoken openly about the challenges she faced growing up in such a high control environment. Her experience influenced her perspective on personal freedom and her later success in the entertainment industry. She is well known for her roles in ‘Parenthood’ and ‘Antwone Fisher’.

Victoria Rowell

Victoria Rowell is best known for her long running role on ‘The Young and the Restless’ where she played Drucilla Winters. She has been a prominent and public member of the Church of Scientology for a significant portion of her adult life. The actress often credits the organization with helping her manage the stresses of the competitive entertainment industry. She has also appeared in films like ‘Dumb and Dumber’ and ‘Eve’s Bayou’ throughout her successful career. Her involvement with the group remains a significant part of her public identity and spiritual journey.

Anne-Marie Johnson

Anne-Marie Johnson is a veteran actress who achieved fame in ‘In the Heat of the Night’ and ‘What’s Happening Now!!’. She has been identified as a member of the Church of Scientology and has appeared in their promotional materials. The actress has held leadership positions within the Screen Actors Guild while maintaining her ties to the organization. She has spoken about the positive impact the group’s teachings have had on her professional discipline. Her extensive television career also includes roles in ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘That’s So Raven’.

Teresa Graves

Teresa Graves was a trailblazing actress who starred in the police drama ‘Get Christie Love!’ during the 1970s. She chose to leave her successful acting career behind after becoming a dedicated member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. The group is often categorized by some researchers as a high control religious organization due to its strict social requirements. Graves spent the rest of her life focused on her faith and religious outreach rather than Hollywood fame. She remains a significant figure in television history for being one of the first African American women to lead a drama series.

Lark Voorhies

Lark Voorhies rose to fame as Lisa Turtle on the hit teenage sitcom ‘Saved by the Bell’. She was raised in the Jehovah’s Witnesses and has maintained her connection to the faith throughout her adult life. The actress has occasionally discussed how her religious upbringing influenced her choices and behavior in the spotlight. Some media outlets have explored the relationship between her religious background and her personal challenges over the years. She continues to be remembered for her iconic role in the ‘Saved by the Bell’ franchise.

Serena Williams

Serena Williams is a world famous athlete and actress who has appeared in ‘Ocean’s Eight’ and ‘Drop Dead Diva’. She was raised as a Jehovah’s Witness and continues to practice the faith with her family. The organization is known for its strict adherence to specific biblical interpretations and its separation from certain social customs. Williams has mentioned in interviews that her faith plays a central role in how she raises her daughter and conducts her life. Her religious beliefs influenced her decision to not celebrate birthdays or participate in political activities.

Venus Williams

Venus Williams is an accomplished tennis champion and actress who appeared in ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’. Like her sister she was raised within the Jehovah’s Witnesses and remains committed to the organization today. The group requires a high level of dedication and frequent participation in door to door ministry. Venus has spoken about how the teachings of the organization provide her with a sense of peace and purpose outside of sports. Her commitment to these beliefs is a well documented aspect of her personal life.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell is a beloved actress known for her iconic roles in ‘Martin’ and ‘My Wife and Kids’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through her close social circle and professional associations in Hollywood. While she has not been as public about her membership as some of her peers reports have consistently placed her within the group’s orbit. The actress has navigated a long and successful career in television and film while maintaining these ties. She also starred in the ‘House Party’ film series and ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold is widely recognized for her roles in ‘Martin’ and ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. She has often been associated with the Church of Scientology because of her long standing friendship with other prominent members. While she has clarified that she is a Christian she has participated in many events hosted by the organization over the years. This association has led to frequent questions from the media about her stance on the group’s practices. She continues to be a major force in television comedy and dramatic roles.

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox has had a prolific career with starring roles in ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Kill Bill’. She has been reported as a guest and associate of the Scientology Celebrity Centre in Los Angeles on several occasions. These associations are often documented through her appearances at high profile events hosted by the organization. The actress has maintained a diverse range of spiritual interests while navigating her path in the film industry. Her work remains highly influential in both action films and television dramas.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais is a well known actress from ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ and a personality on ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through social gatherings and industry connections for many years. Although she has not officially declared herself a member her name has appeared in contexts related to the group’s social circles. The actress has focused much of her public life on her career and her role as a mother. She has also appeared in ‘Coming to America’ and ‘Spider-Man Homecoming’.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph is an award winning actress known for her work in ‘Dreamgirls’ and the sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her name has been associated with the Church of Scientology in various industry publications and member lists. Like many actors of her generation she has moved through different social and spiritual circles within the Hollywood community. She has used her platform to advocate for health awareness and social justice throughout her career. Her performance in ‘Moesha’ remains a favorite among television fans.

Nia Long

Nia Long has starred in classic films such as ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘The Best Man’. She has been identified in media reports as having an association with the Church of Scientology through her professional network. These reports often highlight the prevalence of the organization among elite African American actors in the 1990s and 2000s. The actress has focused on maintaining her privacy while continuing to deliver powerful performances on screen. She recently appeared in the series ‘The Best Man The Final Chapters’ on streaming platforms.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams is a multifaceted performer who starred in ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through various reports regarding her social and professional associations in the entertainment industry. These connections are common among high profile performers who frequent the organization’s specialized centers. Williams has managed a highly successful career in music and acting while keeping her spiritual life relatively private. She is also famous for her Broadway roles and her history as a former Miss America.

Cree Summer

Cree Summer is a talented actress and voice artist known for her role in ‘A Different World’. She has been mentioned in discussions regarding Scientology because of her connections to other actors who are members. Her unique voice has been featured in countless animated series including ‘Rugrats’ and ‘Inspector Gadget’. While she maintains a busy career in voice acting she has stayed largely out of the tabloid spotlight regarding her personal beliefs. She remains one of the most prolific voice actresses in the industry today.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a household name with ‘The Cosby Show’ and later ‘That’s So Raven’. She has been associated with the Church of Scientology through her long history in the industry and her friendships with known members. Speculation about her involvement has appeared in various entertainment news outlets over the years. The actress has always been open about her evolving personal views and her journey of self discovery. She continues to produce and star in the revival series ‘Raven’s Home’ for Disney Channel.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish rose to superstardom with her breakout role in the film ‘Girls Trip’. She has faced public questions about her relationship with Scientology after being seen at the organization’s Celebrity Centre. The actress has mentioned in interviews that she is curious about many different philosophies and ways of life. Her rise in the comedy world has made her one of the most visible figures in Hollywood today. She has also starred in ‘The Afterparty’ and ‘Night School’.

Jurnee Smollett

Jurnee Smollett is an acclaimed actress known for ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through reports of her social associations within the film community. As a performer who started her career at a young age she has been part of various Hollywood circles. Her work is often praised for its depth and emotional resonance in both film and television. She continues to take on challenging roles that highlight her versatility as a dramatic actress.

Lisa Bonet

Lisa Bonet gained fame as Denise Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ before moving into more avant garde film roles. She has been associated with various spiritual groups and gurus that some observers have categorized as cult like. Her lifestyle and personal philosophy often emphasize a departure from mainstream Hollywood culture. The actress has maintained a very private life while raising her children in a creative and spiritual environment. She appeared in the film ‘Angel Heart’ and the series ‘Ray Donovan’.

Willow Smith

Willow Smith is an actress and musician who appeared in ‘I Am Legend’ and ‘Madagascar Escape 2 Africa’. As the daughter of Jada Pinkett Smith she was raised in an environment influenced by the educational practices of Scientology. Her upbringing involved diverse spiritual teachings and unconventional schooling methods. The performer has often discussed her unique perspective on life and her journey with mental health on ‘Red Table Talk’. She continues to release successful music and engage in social activism.

Kellee Stewart

Kellee Stewart is an actress known for her roles in ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ and the series ‘My Boys’. She is a documented member of the Church of Scientology and has been involved with the organization for several years. The actress has participated in events and programs designed to promote the group’s teachings. Her career includes a variety of comedic and dramatic roles in television and film. She remains an active part of the Hollywood community while maintaining her spiritual commitments.

Judith Jamison

Judith Jamison is a world renowned dancer and actress who appeared in the film ‘Sophisticated Ladies’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through various reports regarding celebrity membership. As a legendary figure in the world of modern dance she has influenced generations of performers. Her career has been marked by numerous awards and her leadership of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. She remains an important cultural icon in the American arts landscape.

Salli Richardson-Whitfield

Salli Richardson-Whitfield is an actress and director known for ‘Eureka’ and ‘A Low Down Dirty Shame’. She has been associated with the Church of Scientology social circles through her connections with other prominent actors. Her career has transitioned into successful television directing for major network series. The actress has always been seen as a stylish and influential figure in the Hollywood community. She continues to work on high profile projects both in front of and behind the camera.

Holly Robinson Peete

Holly Robinson Peete achieved fame on the police drama ’21 Jump Street’ and the sitcom ‘Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper’. She has been reported as having ties to the Church of Scientology through her long history in the entertainment business. The actress is also well known for her extensive charity work and advocacy for autism awareness. She has balanced a busy acting career with her role as a mother and a public figure. Her family life has been documented on the reality series ‘For Peete’s Sake’.

Karyn Parsons

Karyn Parsons is best known for her role as Hilary Banks on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through various industry associations and social reports. The actress has focused much of her recent work on her foundation which promotes African American history through animation. She has also written several books for children and young adults. Her performance on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ remains a staple of television comedy.

Janet Hubert

Janet Hubert is an actress famously known as the original Aunt Viv on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. She has been mentioned in reports regarding Scientology associations among the cast and crew of her various projects. The actress has had a long and varied career in television and theater including a role on ‘General Hospital’. She is known for her strong performances and her candid discussions about the challenges of the acting industry. Recently she appeared in the ‘Fresh Prince’ reunion special and the series ‘Love Life’.

Michelle Thomas

Michelle Thomas was a talented actress known for her roles on ‘The Cosby Show’ and ‘Family Matters’. She was raised as a member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses and remained part of the faith until her untimely death. The actress was beloved for her role as Myra Monkhouse on ‘Family Matters’ where she showcased her comedic timing. Her family has spoken about the importance of their faith during her health struggles. She is remembered fondly by fans of 1990s television.

Ja’Net DuBois

Ja’Net DuBois was a legendary actress and singer best known for her role as Willona Woods on ‘Good Times’. She was a longtime and dedicated member of the Church of Scientology throughout her adult life. The actress also co wrote and sang the iconic theme song for the series ‘The Jeffersons’. She was a staple of African American television for decades and won multiple Emmy Awards for her voiceover work. Her commitment to her faith was a well known aspect of her life in the Hollywood community.

Roz Ryan

Roz Ryan is an actress and singer with a powerful voice who starred in the sitcom ‘Amen’. She has been a member of the Church of Scientology for many years and has been featured in their materials. The actress has had a successful career on Broadway and in voice acting for animated series like ‘Hercules’. She often brings a high energy and commanding presence to her roles in both television and theater. Her involvement with the organization has been a consistent part of her journey in the arts.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is an actress and producer famous for her role as Maxine Shaw on ‘Living Single’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through reports of her social and professional associations. The actress has become a prominent voice in the industry as a producer and advocate for diverse storytelling. She appeared in the critically acclaimed film ‘Get Out’ and the series ‘Run the World’. Her career continues to evolve as she takes on significant roles in modern media.

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise is a highly respected dramatic actress known for ‘Set It Off’ and ‘Beloved’. She has been associated with the Church of Scientology through various social circles and reports within the film industry. The actress is known for her intense and emotional performances in both film and television. She has received numerous awards and nominations for her work throughout her distinguished career. Her role in ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ remains one of her most popular performances.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is an actress and producer known for her starring roles in ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Black-ish’. She has been linked to the Church of Scientology through social associations and her life in the Los Angeles entertainment community. The actress is the daughter of legendary singer Diana Ross and has carved out her own successful path in Hollywood. She is celebrated for her comedic talent and her influence as a fashion icon. Her work on ‘Black-ish’ has earned her multiple Golden Globe and Emmy nominations.

Regina King

Regina King is an Academy Award winning actress and director known for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and ‘Watchmen’. She has been mentioned in reports regarding Scientology due to her close professional and personal ties to members of the community. Her career has seen a remarkable rise from a child star on ‘227’ to one of the most powerful directors in Hollywood. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her performances in series like ‘American Crime’. Her influence in the industry continues to grow with every new project.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell is a world famous supermodel and actress who has appeared in ‘Empire’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She has been reported to have explored the teachings of Scientology at different points in her career. As a global icon she has moved through many elite social and spiritual circles across the world. The actress has used her fame to advocate for diversity in the fashion industry and for various charitable causes. Her presence on television has introduced her to a new generation of fans.

Yolanda King

Yolanda King was an actress and the eldest daughter of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Junior. She was identified in several reports as having an association with the Church of Scientology during her life in Los Angeles. The actress appeared in films like ‘Ghosts of Mississippi’ and dedicated much of her work to promoting social change. She used her platform to carry on her father’s legacy through the arts and public speaking. Her death in 2007 was a significant loss to the activist and acting communities.

Marsha Hunt

Marsha Hunt is a singer and actress who became a cultural icon in the 1960s and 1970s. She was a member of the Church of Scientology and has discussed her experiences with the organization in her writings. The performer is well known for her role in the London production of the musical ‘Hair’. She has also had a successful career as a novelist and has written several books about her life. Her unique style and artistic contributions have left a lasting mark on the entertainment world.

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