Actress Bethany Joy Lenz, known for her role in “One Tree Hill,” recently disclosed her decade-long involvement in a cult, expressing her eagerness to share her story.
During an episode of the “Drama Queens” podcast, Lenz, joined by former co-stars Hilarie Burton Morgan, Sophia Bush and guest Michaela McManus, discussed her desire to write about her experience and the subsequent 10-year recovery journey.
Lenz, who portrayed Haley James on the popular teen drama series, acknowledged the significance of her cult experience and expressed her intention to explore it in writing. However, she acknowledged the pressure of accurately conveying her ordeal and the constraints posed by ongoing legal matters surrounding the cult.
“I was in a cult for 10 years,” she told Sophia Bush and Hilarie Burton Morgan. “That would be a really valuable experience to write about, and the recovery—10 years of recovery after that. So there’s a lot to tell.”
Lenz also hinted at her creative endeavors, mentioning her regular writing practice, including songwriting and the anticipation of upcoming projects.
“Also, I don’t know how much I can say because there are still people and legal things in place that make it more complicated for the timing of that. But I do write. I write all the time,” Lenz added.
While Lenz refrained from providing further details, she shared a heartfelt Instagram post in May reflecting on the profound impact Christian theologian Dr. Tim Keller had on her life:
Dr. Keller passed away at the age of 72 on May 19, 2023.
View this post on Instagram
In her post, she credited Keller with guiding her through a period of darkness and transforming her faith. Keller’s teachings empowered Lenz to rebuild her belief system using reason and logic, instilling confidence and security in her faith. She emphasized Keller’s trustworthiness, humility and compassionate voice that led her out of despair and into the freedom of an authentic relationship with Jesus Christ.
Through her openness and reflections, Lenz is a testament to the redemptive power of Jesus Christ and the journey of healing and renewal that can arise from challenging circumstances during the Christian walk of faith.
James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
Abby Trivett 
Bill Wiese 
