L. Ron Hubbard's 115th birthday: That time he admitted Scientology was all a sham

The Scientology founder made a stunning admission about his 'religion' in front of a live audience.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:00pm

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TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you've signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today's feature story at your inbox: L. Ronald Hubbard was born 115 years ago today. According to Scientology, in 1986 he left his 74-year-old body to pursue 'researches' elsewhere. Wherever he is, Commodore, we mark your 115th with a look at stunning admissions you made at one point in front of a live audience!

Why it matters

This story highlights the contradictions and controversies that have surrounded Scientology and its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, since the religion's inception. Hubbard's reported admission that Scientology was 'all a sham' directly contradicts the church's official narrative and raises questions about the legitimacy and sincerity of his teachings.

The details

The article refers to a time when Hubbard allegedly made a stunning admission in front of a live audience that Scientology was 'all a sham.' This would be a highly significant revelation, as Hubbard is revered by Scientologists as the founder and sole source of the religion's beliefs and practices. If true, it would undermine the core foundations of Scientology and cast doubt on Hubbard's motives and honesty.

  • L. Ronald Hubbard was born 115 years ago today (March 13, 1911).
  • According to Scientology, Hubbard left his 74-year-old body in 1986 to pursue 'researches' elsewhere.

The players

L. Ron Hubbard

The founder of the Church of Scientology, who is revered by Scientologists as the sole source of the religion's beliefs and practices.

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The takeaway

This story highlights the ongoing controversies and contradictions surrounding Scientology and its founder, L. Ron Hubbard. Hubbard's alleged admission that Scientology was 'all a sham' would be a significant revelation that could undermine the legitimacy of the religion and raise further questions about Hubbard's motives and honesty.