Mike Rinder, a prominent former member of the Church of Scientology and critic of the organization, has died at the age of 69 after a prolonged illness.
After fighting advanced esophageal cancer for a year and a half, Rinder, once a high-ranking Scientologist, ultimately succumbed to the disease, according to Mail Online.
Born in Australia, Rinder became deeply involved in Scientology, dedicating over 30 years to its Sea Org, an elite unit within the church. However, his departure from the Church in 2007 marked a significant turning point in his life.
John Sweeney’s confrontational BBC documentary "Scientology and Me" partly influenced his decision to leave, exposing various aspects of the Church's practices.
After leaving, Rinder emerged as an outspoken critic of the Church, using media platforms to spotlight alleged malpractices within the organization.
After leaving Scientology, Rinder became an outspoken adversary, contributing extensively to blog posts and media presentations critical of his former faith. He aimed to shed light on the controversial operations of the Church.
He teamed up with actress and fellow ex-Scientologist Leah Remini on the docuseries "Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath," which earned critical acclaim during its three-season run. The series offered an in-depth exploration of the personal stories of individuals affected by the Church’s practices.
Additionally, Rinder co-hosted the podcast "Scientology: Fair Game," which continued to examine and discuss the Church's alleged wrongdoings until it ceased production in 2020.
Rinder’s personal battles did not overshadow his commitment to advocating against the Church’s practices. His wife, Christie Collbran, a former Sea Org member, reflected on his enduring spirit and integrity.
In her statement, Christie expressed deep sorrow, noting how deeply Rinder was loved by those he influenced and supported: "Rest in peace, my sweet, beautiful husband. I speak for so many when I say the sadness and pain we feel mirror the depth of our unwavering love for you."
She continued, highlighting his remarkable qualities: "Your courage, bravery, and integrity are unmatched and will forever inspire us. You have been the pillar of stability in our lives, filling our days with your strength, wisdom, love, laughter, and devotion."
In his final public statements, Rinder reflected on his journey and the dual lives he felt he had lived. He considered the later years of his life, after leaving Scientology, particularly fulfilling.
"I count myself lucky for living two lives in one lifetime. The second one [was] the most wonderful years anyone could wish for, thanks to being spent with all of you and my new family," Rinder stated.
Although diagnosed with esophageal cancer five years after the cancellation of his podcast with Leah Remini, he remained hopeful and continued to encourage those fighting against injustices associated with Scientology: "If you are in any way fighting to end those abuses please keep the flag flying - never give up."
Christie Collbran announced Rinder's passing on social media, which led to a flood of tributes and messages of condolence from former church members and supporters touched by Rinder's work.
In his last message, Rinder reflected on his motivations and regrets, particularly his aspirations to end the abuses he alleged were part of the Scientology experience.
"My only real regret is not having achieved what I said I wanted to—ending the abuses of Scientology... and seeing [my son] Jack into adulthood," he shared. His enduring hope remained for ongoing efforts to challenge and change the system he once served.
