Series from 2018
In each episode, Elizabeth Vargas examines the world of fringe religions and organizations, alongside their former members.
Elizabeth Vargas examines NXIVM, an organization that sells "self-help" seminars that they claim give people the tools they need to get their lives together and allow them to make a difference in the world. However, the group led by Keith Raniere, referred to by followers as Vanguard, stands accused of drawing supporters down a path of destruction that includes near-starvation diets, sexual assault, forced branding, pseudo-slavery, and blackmail. Luring in many high-profile Hollywood actresses to evangelize for his cause over its 20 years in operation, Raniere was recently arrested in Mexico and charged with sex trafficking, among other crimes. Former members of NXIVM share harrowing experiences of manipulation and sexual violation.
Former Jehovah's Witness Romy Maple--a survivor of child sexual abuse--embarks on a journey to uncover why her pleas for justice were systematically ignored by top members of the organization.
Amy Bril recounts her childhood growing up in the Children of God, a group notorious for pedophilia and "religious" prostitution.
Growing up in the United Nation of Islam (UNOI), Elijah Muhammad was forced into child labor, physical abuse and squalid living conditions. Today, he has a unique opportunity to speak to the FBI in hope of getting justice for himself and the other children abused by UNOI and its leader, Royall Jenkins', teachings.
Elizabeth Vargas investigates controversial religious organizations and sects, uncovering how these groups prey upon their followers and create powerful, often destructive belief systems.
Despite their hippie persona and rustic community businesses, the Twelve Tribes have long stood accused of physically abusing children and subjugating of women.
