Watch The Cult of the Family

The Cult of the Family is a six-part docuseries that explores one of Australia's most notorious and mysterious cults, The Family. Led by Anne Hamilton-Byrne, The Family was a spiritual sect that gained notoriety in the 1970s and 1980s. Hamilton-Byrne claimed to be the reincarnation of Jesus Christ and her followers believed that she could lead them to salvation.

The series takes a deep dive into the cult's history, exploring how Hamilton-Byrne created the cult and gained followers, as well as the psychological manipulation and abuse that took place within the group.

Through interviews with former members, cult experts, and archival footage, The Cult of the Family provides an intimate look into the experiences of those who lived within The Family and their struggles to break free from its grip.

The series also explores the legal battles that came after the cult's demise, including Hamilton-Byrne's trial and the fight for custody of the children that were raised within The Family.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Cult of the Family is the personal accounts provided by former members. Many of these individuals were children when they were brought into the cult, and they share their experiences of being raised within its confines. The documentary explores how they were brainwashed and subjected to physical and psychological abuse, as well as how they eventually found the strength to leave and begin rebuilding their lives.

At the core of The Cult of the Family is the figure of Anne Hamilton-Byrne. Through interviews with family members and former followers, the series paints a complex picture of a woman who was both charismatic and deeply troubled. Her legacy and impact on those who followed her is explored in detail, from her calculated control over the group to the psychological scars left on those who left.

The series is also notable for its use of archival footage and photographs, providing a vivid look into the aesthetic and culture of The Family. Hamilton-Byrne's obsession with Tibetan mysticism and her affinity for dressing her followers in identical clothing is explored in depth, as is the group's eventual move to a secluded property in rural Victoria.

Overall, The Cult of the Family is a gripping and thought-provoking series that sheds light on one of Australia's most notorious cults. Through personal accounts and expert insight, it provides a powerful and unsettling look into the dynamics of cults and the damage they can do to those caught in their grip.

The Cult of the Family is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between March 12, 2019 and on STARZ