There's no denying that Scientology has become a major hot-button topic throughout the years and left many people curious for a peek behind that mysterious curtain. What is it about this organization that draws thousands upon thousands of followers and numerous celebrities to it like a moth to a flame? It's a topic HBO's documentary Going Clear , based on Lawrence Wright's book, makes sure to dive right into, seeking to chart the church's growth as well as highlight some of Wright's biggest accusations — one of which involves Tom Cruise's Scientology-appointed ex-girlfriend Nazanin Boniadi.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the story, Boniadi was reportedly groomed by the church to be Cruise's girlfriend back in 2004. Scientology representatives denied that such a thing ever took place. However, former Scientologist Paul Haggis confirmed the reports in an email to Showbiz 411 back in 2012, noting that Boniadi was indeed vetted as a possible match for Cruise and then treated appallingly when the arrangement didn't work out. HBO's documentary puts more evidence behind the claim. (The actress has since left the church as well.) But instead of letting such a scandal consume her life, Boniadi has managed to rise above it all and has since become both a familiar and welcome face on the small screen in particular.
In fact, whether you realize or not, you're more than likely a big fan of her work in several noteworthy projects — including the Paul Haggis film The Next Three Days, which the Scientology doc teases. But Boniadi has also done a lot of TV. Such as…
She Starred In Homeland
Homeland fans should immediately recognize her as Fara Sherazi, a young Persian analyst who was recruited by Saul. Sadly, though, this character met her demise back in 2014.
She Brought Scandal To, Well, Scandal
If you recall Boniadi played the role of terrorist Adnan Salif, who we soon discovered served as a pivotal link to Harrison's background. (Let's just say the two of them got rather cozy at one point.) She also had direct ties to Maya aka Mama Pope until eventually meeting her maker. (Anyone sensing a pattern here?)
She Dated Barney Stinson on How I Met Your Mother
Remember Robin's old co-worker at World Wide News? Well, then you should definitely remember when she went out on a date with Barney and his heart literally skipped a beat upon seeing her. Now if that's not enough to send your own heart aflutter then I don't know what is. Their chemistry was downright legen — WAIT FOR IT — dary. (You know I had to.)
She's Worked With Jack Bauer
Granted, this was a relatively minor role, especially given that she was only credited on 24 as "Blonde Woman." But still, working with Jack Bauer in any capacity should be viewed as a huge accomplishment. We may not know Jack, but she sure does!
UPDATE: The Church of Scientology has reached out to Bustle, stating: "The accusations made in the film are entirely false and alleged without ever asking the Church."
Images: hellyeahomeland/Tumblr; scandalmoments/Tumblr; noraxbarney/Tumblr; Giphy
