Megachurch Hillsong Explodes Amid Scandals Involving Celebrity Pastors and Alleged Abuse
- A new documentary series explores the rise and fall of Hillsong Church, a global megachurch known for attracting celebrity congregants.
- Pastor Carl Lentz, who led Hillsong NYC, was fired in 2020 for "moral failures," admitting to extramarital affairs.
- The series addresses allegations of discrimination, misuse of funds and cover-ups of abuse against Hillsong and its leaders.
- Founder Brian Houston resigned amid allegations he concealed information about child sex abuse by his father, a Hillsong pastor.
- As of March 2023, most U.S. Hillsong locations have closed due to scandals and reduced attendance.