Key Takeaways
- Mike Rinder transformed from a high-ranking Scientology executive to one of its most influential critics.
- His collaborations with Leah Remini, including their Emmy-winning show and podcast, exposed controversial church practices.
- Rinder’s advocacy work and bestselling memoir made him a leading voice for Scientology reform while building a $3 million net worth.
Mike Rinder, known for his journey from a high-ranking member of the Church of Scientology to a vocal critic of the organization, left a profound legacy when he passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 69.
Rinder’s contributions as an author, podcaster, and advocate for reform were significant, and his work resonated with many who sought to understand the inner workings of Scientology.
Mike Rinder’s Estimated Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Mike Rinder’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. At the time of his passing, Mike Rinder’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 million.
This wealth was primarily accumulated through his work in media, including his Emmy Award-winning A&E series Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath, his memoir A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology, and his podcast Scientology: Fair Game, which he co-hosted with Leah Remini.
Rinder’s earnings also stemmed from public speaking engagements and his advocacy work, where he shared his experiences and insights about the controversial practices of Scientology.
A Life Dedicated To Advocacy
Born on April 10, 1955, in Adelaide, Australia, Rinder was introduced to Scientology at the age of 5 and rose to prominence within the organization.
He served as a senior executive in the Church of Scientology International and the Sea Organization, overseeing legal and public relations matters at the international level.
However, in 2007, Rinder made the life-altering decision to leave Scientology.
Following his departure, Rinder became a key figure in exposing the church’s practices, including its alleged abuse of members.
His work alongside Leah Remini on Scientology and the Aftermath gave a voice to ex-members and shone a light on the church’s controversial policies, including its disconnection practice.
Rinder’s memoir, A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology, published in 2022, offered a detailed account of his life within the church and the challenges he faced after leaving.
The book became a bestseller and solidified his position as a trusted voice in exposing the darker side of Scientology.
In addition to his memoir, Rinder’s podcast Scientology: Fair Game further extended his reach, addressing new issues and sharing the stories of those affected by the church.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- He was survived by his wife, Christie Collbran, and their sons, Shane and Jack, as well as two children from a previous marriage.
- In his final words, Rinder expressed gratitude for the second life he was able to build outside of Scientology and urged others to continue the fight against the organization’s alleged abuses.
