‎The Way Down: God, Greed, and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin - Apple TV

Available on HBO Max

An examination of the rise and fall of Weigh Down Workshop, Gwen Shamblin Lara's religious weight loss regime.

Documentary · 2021 · 47 min

Director Marina Zenovich

EPISODE 1

The Kingdom

A deadly May 2021 plane crash in Tennessee draws public attention to the Remnant Fellowship Church and its founder, Gwen Shamblin Lara. Some experts, neighbours, and former members believe Gwen's church is a dangerous cult.

45 min · 1 Jan 2021
EPISODE 2

A Family Affair

In 2018, Gwen marries struggling actor and singer Joe Lara, raising questions about the couple's chequered past. With close ties to Remnant, Joe's legal team help wage a bitter custody battle for his young daughter.

45 min · 1 Jan 2021
EPISODE 3

Seen But Not Heard

When two Remnant members are charged with the murder of their child, allegations of abuse within the church begin to surface; another tragedy forever changes the trajectory of the Remnant's future.

53 min · 1 Jan 2021
EPISODE 4

Revelations

After a mysterious accident claims the lives of Gwen, Joe, and some of their inner circle, former Remnant members grapple with the leader's complicated legacy, and new voices come forward for the first time.

39 min · 1 Jan 2021
EPISODE 5

The Way Forward

As the Remnant Fellowship fights to control the narrative, footage of a never-aired reality series pilot surfaces, casting new light on the ways Gwen shaped her image and the lives of those who followed her.

38 min · 1 Jan 2021

Marina Zenovich

Director
Marina Zenovich

Producer
Ross M. Dinerstein

Producer
Luke Dillon

Producer
Chrissy Teigan

Producer
Nile Cappello

Producer
Isobel Waller-Bridge

Music