Bethany Joy Lenz’s Memoir Exposes The Cult That Controlled Her Life During "One Tree Hill"
Bethany Joy Lenz, celebrated for her portrayal of Haley James Scott on the beloved television series "One Tree Hill," has recently unveiled a harrowing chapter of her life. In her memoir, "Dinner for Vampires," Lenz reveals that she was entangled in a religious group known as the Big House Family, which she now identifies as a cult.
Lenz's ascent in Hollywood was sparked by her role as Haley James, the sweet and musically gifted girl-next-door who captured the hearts of viewers.
One of the show's creators, Mark Schwahn, often wove aspects of the actors' real lives into their characters. Lenz's devout Christian faith influenced Haley's storyline of saving herself for marriage, and her musical talents were showcased through Haley's journey as a singer. However, unbeknownst to fans and colleagues, Lenz was grappling with the oppressive dynamics of the Big House Family during this period.
It would also later come to light that Schwahn was allegedly manipulative and harrassed multiple female castmates, including Sophia Bush.
The Big House Family
In her early twenties, Lenz sought community and spiritual growth, which led her to a Bible study group in Los Angeles. This seemingly innocent gathering gradually morphed into a controlling environment under the leadership of a domineering minister. Lenz describes how the group isolated members from outside influences to create an environment of fear and submission.
She was eventually coerced into a marriage with the leader's son, despite her lack of genuine feelings for him, and was subjected to emotional and financial exploitation.
Key Individuals Involved
Michael Galeotti Sr. has been identified as the founder and leader of the Big House Family, Galeotti Sr. has been accused by Lenz of orchestrating manipulative practices within the group. He has publicly refuted these allegations, suggesting that Lenz's claims are exaggerated.
Michael Galeotti Jr. is his son and Lenz's former husband. The two married in 2005 and share a daughter named Maria Rose, born in 2011. Their marriage, heavily influenced by the group's doctrines, ended in divorce in 2012.
Lenz's Experience
During her time with the Big House Family, Lenz faced significant personal challenges. She alleges that the group, under the guise of communal living and shared resources, misappropriated substantial portions of her earnings from her acting career. Reports indicate that she lost millions due to the group's control over her finances.
Additionally, the group's leadership exerted control over members by dictating personal decisions. The group also allegedly discouraged external relationships, isolating members from family and friends. Lenz has recounted instances where she was pressured to sever ties with loved ones, further entrenching her dependence on the group.
The group's influence was so pervasive that Lenz was also dissuaded from pursuing significant career opportunities, including a potential role as Belle in a Broadway production of "Beauty and the Beast," with the rationale that such "secular dreams" were selfish.
The Struggle for Creative Expression
Lenz's creative aspirations were allegedly continually stifled by the cult's leadership. She developed a passion project—a musical adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' "The Notebook"—and even secured the rights and initial interest from producers.
However, the cult's control over her personal and professional life led to the project's derailment, with another composer eventually bringing a different adaptation to life. This pattern of suppression not only hurt her career but also contributed to a profound personal crisis, as she struggled to reconcile her faith with the manipulative rules imposed upon her.
Castmates' Concerns and Interventions
Lenz's castmates grew increasingly concerned about her well-being during the show, suspecting that she might be entangled in a cult. Despite their interventions, Lenz remained in denial, convinced that her spiritual community was genuine and beneficial.
Lenz's co-stars observed changes in her behavior and lifestyle that raised red flags. Craig Sheffer, who portrayed Keith Scott on the show, confronted her directly, stating, "You know you're in a cult, right?" Lenz dismissed his concerns, responding, "No, no, no. Cults are weird. Cults are people in robes chanting crazy things and drinking Kool-Aid. That's not what we do!"
Other cast members also noticed her increasing isolation. They attempted to reach out, expressing their worries, but Lenz, deeply indoctrinated, justified her involvement, believing she had access to a unique relationship with God that others couldn't understand.
Breaking Free
The birth of her daughter in 2011 became a catalyst for change. Determined to prevent her child from enduring similar control and abuse, Lenz found the courage to leave the Big House Family in 2012.
The process of disentangling herself from the cult's influence was painful, involving significant legal battles and a complete reevaluation of her identity and beliefs. In interviews, Lenz has spoken about the "rude awakening" she experienced upon leaving, as she had to rebuild her life from the ground up, rediscovering her freedom and faith.
Life After the Cult
Since her departure, Lenz has dedicated herself to healing and personal growth. She has reconnected with her passion for music and acting, taking on various projects that resonate with her renewed sense of self.
Her memoir, Dinner for Vampires, released on October 22, 2024, has become a New York Times bestseller.
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