In an interview with “Good Morning America” to promote his new movie "The Forger," prominent celebrity Scientologist John Travolta defended his religion for the second time since Alex Gibney’s documentary expose “Going Clear” shed light on the church's controversial practices and well-documented history of abuse.
Asked by GMA’s Amy Robach why there was so much interest and intrigue in his church — with Robach noting that former members have been "speaking out, alleging abuses" — Travolta responded “mostly because it's not understood.”
"People really need to take time and read a book,” said Travolta. “You know? That's my advice. You could read 'A New Slant on Life,' you could read 'Dianetics.' And I think if you really read it, you'll understand it, but unless you do, you'll speculate. And I think that's a mistake to do that.”
That’s right, Scientology critics: Read a book! Just definitely not this one. Oh, and please make it one of these two books by L. Ron Hubbard. But within those parameters, go wild.
Travolta continued to explain how Scientology has helped him cope with traumatic life events, including the death of his sixteen-year-old son in 2009.
"Sometimes when something really works well it becomes a target," he continued. "Forty years, for me, I've been part -- and I've loved every minute of it. My family has done so well with it. You know? It's a beautiful thing for me. I've saved lives with it, and saved my own life several times. Through the loss of my son, it helped me every step of the way for two years solid, and here I am talking to you because of it."
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