SYDNEY: A bizarre social media trend known as the “Scientology speedrun” is rapidly spreading across countries including the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, with young people filming themselves rushing into Scientology buildings in videos that have gained millions of views online.
Scientology is a religious movement founded in the 1950s by American writer L. Ron Hubbard that focuses on spiritual self-improvement and has long faced controversy and criticism from former members and activists.
The trend reportedly began in Los Angeles in March after content creator Swhileyy uploaded a video of himself charging into a Scientology centre on Hollywood Boulevard. The clip reportedly attracted around 90 million views before it was removed.
Since then, groups of mostly young men have posted videos attempting to enter Scientology buildings while wearing disguises such as masks, costumes and even dinosaur outfits.
Some participants have reportedly dressed as fictional characters or demanded to see actor Tom Cruise, one of Scientology’s most famous followers.
Internet attention
The challenge has now spread to Australia, where crowds gathered outside Scientology centres in Sydney and Brisbane over the weekend.
According to police, around 100 young people assembled outside the Sydney building before officers dispersed the crowd.
Two teenagers were arrested in separate incidents in Sydney and Brisbane after allegedly failing to comply with police directions and engaging in disruptive behaviour.
Despite the growing online popularity of the trend, critics and former Scientology members have warned that the stunts trivialise concerns raised about the organisation.
Actress and former Scientologist Leah Remini criticised the trend, saying it only reinforces Scientology’s narrative that outsiders are hostile.
In a statement, the Church of Scientology condemned the incidents, accusing participants of damaging property, disrupting religious spaces and seeking “internet attention” through viral stunts.
The church said it had increased security measures and reported incidents to law enforcement authorities.
