Hannah Murray Reveals Dark Experiences in Wellness Cult

Hannah Murray, known for her role as Gilly on “Game of Thrones,” opened up about her harrowing experience in a wellness cult. She shared her story in a recent interview with The Guardian while promoting her book, “The Make-Believe: A Memoir of Magic and Madness.”

Wellness Industry Criticism

Murray criticized the wellness industry for lacking critical thought. She expressed that people often dismiss the possibility of being affected by such influences, which she finds detrimental. “I was well-educated, from a middle-class family,” she stated. “I thought, ‘I’m smart. I make good choices.’ Well, I made terrible choices.” She emphasized understanding the reasons behind why people join such groups instead of judging them.

Introduction to the Cult

Murray was first introduced to the cult by an “energy healer” on the set of her film “Detroit.” Seeking guidance after dealing with the film’s dark themes, she attended a $150 “healing” session. This session led her to participate in more classes within the unnamed organization.

Experiences with Cult Leaders

Recalling her experiences, Murray said the promises of discovering a magical world were enticing. “As a kid, I desperately wanted that to be true,” she explained. Her interactions with the cult leader, referred to as Steve, were particularly intense, with her describing him as exuding a magical power.

The Breaking Point

Her breaking point came during a five-day course in London, where she suffered a psychotic break. She described hallucinations and a feeling of “giving birth through my skull.” Members surrounded her, chanting, “Be gone, evil spirit in Hannah.” She was then hospitalized for 28 days and diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Mental Health Reflections

Murray, now out of acting, remains cautious about wellness trends. She commented on societal discussions around mental health, noting that deeper conditions often remain taboo. “There’s such a taboo around the idea of people who are sectioned,” she said. Murray felt it crucial to share her journey, emphasizing that many face similar struggles without being “bad or f—ed up forever.”