Bijou Phillips has reportedly left Scientology following the church’s decision to expel her estranged husband, Danny Masterson, after he was sentenced to 30 years in prison for rape, according to DailyMail.com. Masterson, a former actor on “That ’70s Show”, was declared a ‘Suppressive Person’ by Scientology, which typically requires other members, including family, to sever ties with the individual.
Despite this drastic action by the church, sources indicate that Phillips, 43, has chosen to stand by Masterson. This decision comes even after she filed for divorce shortly after his sentencing on September 7. The couple was married for 12 years, and Phillips had been a constant presence by Masterson’s side during his legal trials.
An insider close to former Scientology members revealed that Phillips did not wish to cut ties with Masterson, particularly considering their young daughter’s welfare. The source stated, “Bijou left a few weeks after she found out that Danny had been declared an SP for not living up to the standards of the church.”
The decision to leave Scientology is often difficult, as it can lead to separation from family and friends within the church. In Phillips’ case, however, her family and close friends, including her sisters, are not Scientologists, which may have made her decision easier. Her sister Chynna has been particularly supportive during this challenging time.
Masterson grew up in a family of practicing Scientologists, with both his stepfather Joe Reaiche and mother Carole Masterson having been members of the Sea Org, the clergy of Scientology. However, Reaiche was later declared suppressive for questioning church teachings and lost contact with his children.
The situation surrounding the Masterson family remains complicated, with uncertainties about whether they have left the church or not. The insider noted, “I can’t imagine them cutting ties with Danny. It’s a toxic mess. The whole thing.”
There is speculation that Masterson might reveal sensitive information about Scientology, especially regarding how the church instructed him to handle the rape allegations. This situation poses a potential threat to Scientology, particularly with upcoming civil suits.
Masterson was moved to North Kern State Prison and is under surveillance to monitor his mental state. His wife, Bijou Phillips, has been granted both legal and physical custody of their daughter as he serves his sentence. Phillips’ letter to the judge during Masterson’s trial, describing him as an ‘amazing father’, did not sway the judge’s decision to impose a 30-year sentence.
This development adds another layer to the complex relationship between Scientology and its members, particularly when legal and personal crises intersect.
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