Ep 1. I Survived... Cults
- TV14
- December 5, 2010
- 44 min
I Survived... Cults is the first episode of season 6 of the TV show "I Survived." This season takes an in-depth look at people's experiences with cults and how they survived the ordeal. In this episode, three survivors share their harrowing tales of living within cults and their eventual escape.
The first survivor, named Jamie, was born into a religious cult in the 1970s. She describes how the leader, a charismatic man named "Father," brainwashed the members and controlled every aspect of their lives. Jamie explains how she was forced to work long hours and give all of her earnings to the cult. She also shares how Father would sexually abuse young girls and how she eventually found the courage to escape with the help of an outsider.
The second survivor, Mike, shares his experience with a doomsday cult that predicted the end of the world. He describes how the leader convinced the members to give away all of their money and possessions and move to a remote location in the wilderness. Once there, the group was subject to grueling labor and harsh conditions. Despite his doubts about the leader's predictions, Mike felt trapped and unable to leave. Eventually, with the help of law enforcement, the group was disbanded and Mike was able to move on with his life.
The final survivor, Kali, shares her story of being in a polygamous compound as a child. She explains how the leader, who she was taught to call the "Prophet," claimed he was a messenger of God and that followers must submit to his every whim. Kali shares how she was beaten, abused, and forced to marry at a young age. She also discusses how it wasn't until she was a teenager that she was able to plan her escape with the help of her cousins.
Throughout the episode, the survivors discuss their feelings of fear, guilt, and shame associated with their experiences. They also share their journeys of healing and finding a new sense of purpose in life. The episode highlights the tactics used by cult leaders to manipulate people and provides a glimpse into the mindset of those who are drawn to cults.
Overall, this episode of "I Survived" provides a raw and emotional look into the lives of those who have survived cults. It shows the strength and courage of the survivors in overcoming immense challenges and how they are able to move forward with their lives. The episode is a reminder of the importance of staying informed and vigilant, in order to avoid falling victim to a cult's manipulations.