Mike Rinder, Former Senior Scientologist, Dies at 69
Mike Rinder, a former senior member of the Church of Scientology who became an outspoken critic of the organization, has passed away at the age of 69. Rinder was widely known for his collaboration with actress Leah Remini in exposing Scientology’s controversial practices through their podcast and the Emmy-winning docuseries Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath.
In a final post on his personal blog, Rinder wrote, “This is the last post on this site. I have shuffled off this mortal coil in accordance with the immutable law that there are only two certainties in life: death and taxes.” He added that his greatest regret was not achieving his goal of ending the abuses within Scientology.
Rinder’s death follows a battle with advanced esophageal cancer, which was reported by journalist Tony Ortega in June 2023. In a post on social media, Ortega shared the news of Rinder’s passing, remembering him for his thoughtfulness, even in death.
Born in Adelaide, Australia, on April 10, 1955, Rinder grew up within the Church of Scientology. At 18, he joined Scientology’s elite Sea Org and quickly rose through its ranks, eventually becoming the executive director of the Office of Special Affairs (OSA). In this role, Rinder became known for his aggressive media strategies, including smear campaigns aimed at journalists, former members, and critics of the church.
After leaving Scientology in 2005, Rinder teamed up with Remini, who had also left the church in 2013. Together, they co-hosted Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath, a powerful investigative series that aired from 2016 to 2019 and won two Primetime Emmys. Rinder also appeared in other notable documentaries on Scientology, including Alex Gibney’s Going Clear and the BBC’s The Secrets of Scientology.
Rinder’s death marks the loss of a key figure in the ongoing investigation and exposure of Scientology’s practices, leaving behind a legacy of courage and compassion in speaking out against the church.
