Paul Haggis Feels Spied on by Church of Scientology
Paul Haggis, known for directing “Crash,” has recently stated that he feels the Church of Scientology is spying on him. In a new interview, Haggis explains that he is not out to discredit Scientology but feels monitored.
Haggis told the New York Post, “There are private eyes going through my trash. But only the paper is missing. Well, only paper I write on. My bet is that, within two years, you’re going to read something about me in a scandal that looks like it has nothing to do with the church.”
He left the Church of Scientology, in part, over his views on gay marriage. During the debate over California’s Proposition 8, one branch of the Church made statements in support of the proposition, which sought to ban gay marriage. Haggis wrote to the Church’s spokesman, who refused to denounce the statements.
He ended up leaving the church in October 2009, after 35 years as an active member. As Haggis told the New Yorker, “I was in a cult for 34 years. Everyone else could see it. I don’t know why I couldn’t.”
The Church of Scientology is based on teachings by L. Ron Hubbard and is often criticized for having a cult-like atmosphere and teachings. Practitioners are often required to make substantial financial donations in order to progress through the system of beliefs. Several celebrities practice Scientology, including Tom Cruise, John Travolta, and Kirstie Alley.
