Today, on July 1st, we remember and pay tribute to Mike Rinder — a fierce advocate for truth and justice, who passed away earlier this year on January 5th at the age of 69.
Once a high-ranking executive within the Church of Scientology, Rinder’s life took a dramatic turn when he courageously renounced the organization in 2007. From that moment forward, he dedicated himself to exposing abuse, manipulation, and injustice within Scientology’s ranks, becoming one of its most prominent and unwavering whistleblowers.
- When my husband walked out on me during maternity leave, I told myself I’d handle the heartbreak quietly.
I’m 31, and I used to believe my marriage was solid. Tyler and I had been together for four years when we welcomed […]
- My family pulled me out of the hospital before I was safe to leave, ignored every warning from the doctors,
I still had the hospital wristband on when my mother signed me out against medical advice. The nurse stood between us […]
Rinder’s advocacy reached millions through his work on the Emmy- and Peabody-winning HBO documentary Going Clear in 2015, where his firsthand accounts laid bare the church’s inner workings.
His voice grew louder and more impactful when he teamed up with longtime friend and fellow critic Leah Remini to cohost Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath, the groundbreaking A&E docuseries that earned widespread acclaim for its fearless storytelling and deep compassion for survivors.
Their collaboration continued with the podcast Scientology: Fair Game, where Rinder remained a steadfast voice for accountability and reform.
His death marked the end of a remarkable life shaped by transformation — from a man once deeply embedded in the system he later fought against, to a symbol of resilience, redemption, and moral courage.
Leah Remini remembered Rinder not just as a partner in activism, but as a beloved friend with unwavering integrity:
“Mike risked everything to speak out — his safety, his family, his peace of mind. And he did it not for fame, but to help others. He was brave, funny, relentless, and above all, kind. I will miss him forever.”
Mike Rinder’s legacy endures in the voices he helped empower, the truths he helped unveil, and the countless lives he touched with his strength and sincerity. Today, we honor his memory not only by mourning his loss — but by continuing the work he so fearlessly began.
Rest in peace, Mike. Your voice still echoes.