Michael Galeotti Sr.? Wild Branch Ministries founder at the centre of Bethany Joy Lenz's story
Actress Bethany Joy Lenz has accused Michael Galeotti Sr., founder of the Wild Branch Christian Ministries, of operating his church as a cult. Galeotti Sr. has denied these allegations, which include claims of significant financial loss for Lenz during her time with the group.
Why it matters
The story highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and allegations of religious exploitation, sparking public discourse on high-control groups.
Michael Galeotti Sr. is the founder of Wild Branch Christian Ministries and the former father-in-law of One Tree Hill actress Bethany Joy Lenz. He stands at the centre of her explosive 2024 memoir, which accused his church — nicknamed the "Big House Family" — of operating as a cult. Today, Michael Galeotti Sr.'s church continues to operate out of Battle Ground, Washington, and Galeotti Sr. himself flatly denies Lenz's version of events.
The article presents both the accuser's claims and the subject's denial in a factual, reporting-style manner.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in