Bethany Joy Lenz might be a name that rings a bell for many, especially those who grew up glued to the screen watching One Tree Hill. She played the role of Haley James Scott, a character beloved by fans of the show. However, in her new memoir Dinner With Vampires, Bethany reveals an entirely different side of her life—one that involved being wrapped up in a small Christian cult.
At 44 years old, Lenz is determined to share her story. Since her book dropped, women from all walks of life have been connecting with her experiences. “I get messages daily from women who see their stories reflected in mine,” she shared in an interview with People. Many of these women have faced abusive relationships or toxic family environments. “That’s the reason I wrote the book; I wanted to create something lasting and impactful,” she explained.
Lenz’s connection with the cult began while One Tree Hill was reaching its peak popularity. She describes how the cult’s leader in Idaho manipulated her, affecting every aspect of her life—her career, her family, and her finances. When she finally made the leap to leave in 2012, the aftermath was daunting; her marriage had crumbled, she was a single mom to her daughter, and nearly $2 million earned from her television career had vanished.
Looking back, Lenz remembers the challenges she faced right after breaking free. “There were countless nights of crying on the floor, trying to sort things out and figuring out my next steps,” she recalled, admitting that the financial loss was tough and defeating—triggered by feelings of shame. “Discussing money still feels weird to me, but it was an incredibly difficult time,” she said.
Despite those dark years, Lenz refuses to label them as wasted time, largely due to the joy her daughter Rosie brings into her life. “I wouldn’t have her if I hadn’t gone through everything. Her presence makes it all worthwhile,” said Lenz, with a heartfelt tone.
The release of her memoir has rekindled connections with her past co-stars. Alongside friends Sophia Bush and Hilarie Burton Morgan, she co-hosts the Drama Queens podcast. Several of her former colleagues reached out after reading her book. Ages might separate them, but the honesty and vulnerability of their chats have been endearing. “It’s interesting how we carry our experiences and some topics seem to stay hidden within us, only to resurface even years later. It’s truly healing to talk about them,” Lenz remarked.
Now, instead of concealing her past, she embraces it, paying it forward by uplifting others—especially those trapped in figures of control—and showing that it is possible to thrive once again.
