S01E04

The Exit

Dec 3, 2020 · 51 min

7.2

The 1997 arrival of the Hale-Bopp comet spurs the group to prepare for their departure, though their plan to commit mass suicide goes undetected. After an anonymous 911 caller alerts the authorities, Heaven’s Gate, deemed the first "internet cult," becomes a media and pop culture phenomenon - but the suicides have a very different effect on those closest to them. Today, former members, loved ones, and experts reflect on the legacy of Heaven’s Gate, offering a chilling reminder that indoctrination can happen to anyone.

Cast

Marshall Applewhite
Self - Co-Leader of Heaven’s Gate (archive footage)
Bonnie Nettles
Self - Co-Leader of Heaven’s Gate (archive footage)
Sawyer
Self - Former Member
Frank Lyford
Self - Former Member
Benjamin Zeller
Self - Religious Studies Professor
Janja Lalich
Self - Sociologist
Robert Balch
Self - Sociologist
Kelly Cooke
Self - Daughter of Members
Steve Hassan
Self - Cult Exit Counselor
Jason Bartel
Self - Former Member
Deb Simpson
Self - Sister of Member
Terrie Nettles
Self - Daughter of Bonnie Lou (“Ti”)
David Taylor
Self - Sociologist
Calvin Vine
Self - San Diego Medical Examiner
Nichelle Nichols
Self - Sister of Member (archive footage)

Comments

You haven't watched this episode — comments may spoil it. Comments below are hidden until you reveal them.

No comments yet. Be the first to react to this episode.