When Scientology Set Its Sights on Rock: The Attempt to Recruit Bono

In the early 1990s, the Church of Scientology reportedly attempted to recruit Bono, the iconic frontman of U2, according to Jenna Miscavige Hill, niece of Scientology leader David Miscavige. In an interview with Radar Online, Hill described the church’s strategy to attract high-profile personalities as part of its long-standing focus on celebrity influence.

Scientology has historically maintained relationships with actors, musicians, and public figures as a means of amplifying its visibility and cultural reach. According to Hill, potential recruits were evaluated not by wealth, but by their ability to shape public opinion. In an era when celebrity culture was rapidly expanding, the church believed that star power could accelerate its global influence.

One of the figures mentioned by Hill was Hollywood actor Brad Pitt. At the time, Pitt was dating actress Juliette Lewis and reportedly participated in a Scientology drug detoxification program, often described as an early step toward deeper involvement. Pitt eventually chose not to continue and distanced himself from the organization.

Bono, meanwhile, was allegedly placed on an internal list of influential personalities the church wanted to attract. Hill claims that members believed his activism, public platform, charisma, and humanitarian work aligned well with their messaging. The vocalist was supposedly approached through auditing practices, a core component of Scientology’s path of self-improvement.

Hill argues that the church’s celebrity appeal works on two levels: a sense of personal empowerment and the promise of helping humanity. Both ideas resonate with charitable, socially conscious artists. “There is a strategy around celebrities,” Hill explained. “They are classified by influence. People are obsessed with famous figures, so it increases interest.”

Scientology has long been controversial for its recruitment methods, confidentiality policies, and internal hierarchy. Over the years, several former members have publicly criticized the organization, while others have defended it passionately. Among its most committed supporters is actor Tom Cruise, whose name remains deeply associated with the church.

Despite the rumors, Bono has never publicly confirmed membership or affiliation with Scientology, and experts suggest that any attempts to involve him were unsuccessful. His philanthropic work has remained primarily focused on humanitarian efforts, poverty reduction, and global development initiatives.

The story adds a curious chapter to the intersection of rock stardom, spiritual movements, and the influence of celebrity culture. It also highlights how, in the 1990s, organizations across the spectrum sought the endorsement of artists whose voices reached far beyond the stage.