Part 68: Religion in Hollywood – Scientology and the LAPD vs. Social Media Influencers
Published January 21, 2024

By Zachary Ellison, Independent Journalist

Well Rolling Stone went for it, so I might as well too! On January 10, the legendary publication put out a piece entitled: “How TikTok Accidentally Created a Scientology Heartthrob” by journalist EJ Dickson. It was subtitled “A group of protesters is trying to "end" Scientology — but a social media obsession with one person could derail the movement” because Lord knows you better have something catchy there, because the last thing I would want to see happen is a movement against this controversial institution derailed with the questions I have about what’s going on in Los Angeles lately. Not too poke at the cult group too much, but it’s that time!

The story profiled the efforts of fitness model Jessica Palmadessa and cop watcher William Gude, better known by his handle Film the Police LA. Now Gude to some is a controversial figure, and full disclosure I’ve interviewed Gude before on background to learn more about the relationship between USC, the LAPD and wait for it, the Church of Scientology. You could literally make a chart out of this, and I admire his passion for keeping an eye on the Los Angeles Police Department even as some may find his approach confrontational much like that of street vendor activist Edin Alex Enamorado. Gude even did me a solid helping seek tips on USC Senior Vice President Sam Garrison after the LA Fed Tapes leak.

Link: https://zacharyellison.substack.com/p/part-68-religion-in-hollywood-scientology