Dancing For The Devil: Robert Shinn & 7M TikTok Cult Explained
Is it possible for faith, fame, and fortune to intertwine in a web of manipulation and control, leaving a trail of broken lives in their wake? The story of Robert Shinn, the founder of the Shekinah Church and 7M Films, suggests that the answer may be a disturbing "yes."
The recent Netflix documentary, "Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult," has thrust Robert Shinn into the harsh glare of public scrutiny. The film explores the controversial nexus between Shinn's religious organization, the Shekinah Church, and 7M Films, a talent management company that primarily represents social media influencers, especially those on TikTok. The documentary alleges that both entities were, in essence, tools for controlling and exploiting young dancers and artists.
The narrative is intricate, spanning decades and continents, weaving together elements of faith, familial bonds, and the allure of social media success. Shinn, a former medical doctor who legally changed his last name from "Shin" to "Shinn," established the Shekinah Church in Los Angeles in 1994, initially catering to Korean Americans. The church, over time, expanded its reach and activities, evolving into a community that, according to some, fostered a culture of dependency and obedience. In 2021, Shinn founded 7M Films, positioning himself as a gatekeeper to fame for aspiring TikTok stars. This, as the documentary suggests, was the beginning of a dark chapter.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Israel Shinn |
| Date of Birth | November 28, 1937 |
| Age (as of June 13, 2024) | 87 years old |
| Place of Birth | California, United States |
| Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
| Known For | Founder of Shekinah Church, Founder of 7M Films |
| Education | Rancocas Valley Regional High School, Drexel Institute of Technology (now Drexel University) |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Family | Limited publicly available information; Son: Isaiah Shinn |
| Legal Issues | Facing a civil lawsuit set for trial in 2025 |
| Reference | Netflix - Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult |
The documentary meticulously traces the paths of various dancers and church members who allege that they were subjected to manipulation, control, and exploitation under Shinn's guidance. These individuals, who were once drawn to Shinn and his organizations, now claim they were victims of a cult-like environment. The accusations are severe, ranging from financial control to psychological abuse and forced estrangement from family members.
The story is not just about the alleged exploitation of young talents; it's also a cautionary tale about the seductive power of influence and the potential for charismatic leaders to abuse their positions. The third episode of "Dancing for the Devil" particularly underscores the experiences of those who have come forward, sharing their personal accounts of what they endured within the Shekinah Church and under the umbrella of 7M Films. These narratives paint a picture of a carefully constructed system of control, where individuals were encouraged to sever ties with their families and dedicate their lives to the church and, by extension, to Shinn.
The allegations against Shinn are substantial, and they are not limited to the claims in the documentary. Many of the dancers and former church members have initiated legal proceedings against him, seeking accountability for the alleged harm they suffered. These lawsuits, which are ongoing, further complicate the narrative and underscore the seriousness of the accusations.
The documentary also highlights the origins of the Shekinah Church. Established in 1994 in Los Angeles, the church was initially envisioned as a religious community for Korean Americans. However, over time, the church expanded its reach, incorporating elements of contemporary culture and, eventually, the allure of social media fame. The evolution of the church, as presented in the documentary, is critical to understanding the alleged transformation of the organization from a place of worship to a system of control. The details of this transformation are part of the ongoing investigation.
In contrast to the allegations, details about Shinn's personal life remain relatively limited, despite his public presence. Born on November 28, 1937, in California, he has spent much of his life in the United States. His early life was spent in the sunny state of California. Little is known about his family background or the origins of his beliefs. Information about his family is not publicly known. It's worth noting that Shinn's past includes service as a politician. Robert Shinn Jr., a lifelong resident of Hainesport, passed away on May 5 at age 85. He also served as an elected Burlington County freeholder (now known as commissioner) from 1977 until 1985. In other words, the man at the center of the Netflix documentary is also a former elected official.
The allegations, however, are not new. Before the release of the Netflix documentary, various individuals had voiced concerns about Shinn's practices and the nature of his organizations. In October 2022, Shinn initiated a civil lawsuit against Priscylla Leigh Elisha, a former church member, and four former 7M members, alleging extortion and defamation. This legal action, along with the lawsuits initiated by other former members, underscores the ongoing conflict surrounding Shinn and his organizations.
One of the key questions raised by the documentary is how Shinn was able to exert so much control over so many individuals. The documentary indicates that it was a combination of factors, including religious authority, promises of fame and success, and the isolation of members from their families. The narrative suggests that these elements created a vulnerable environment where individuals were susceptible to manipulation and control. The documentary further discusses his role as a religious figure and a talent manager, both of which would have provided him with power over the members of Shekinah Church and the influencers signed to 7M Films.
The influence of the church is also central to understanding the structure of power within the community. The narrative suggests that the church provided a system of control and the opportunity to isolate members from their families, thereby increasing their dependence on Shinn. The fact that many dancers were forced to live together in a house with other church members further supports the claim of total control.
The documentary has not only prompted intense public interest, but has also reignited discussions about the nature of cults and the tactics that charismatic leaders use to exert control. It has highlighted the vulnerability of young people who are drawn to the promise of fame and fortune and the importance of critical thinking and skepticism when faced with charismatic individuals. It has become a must-see, a chilling reminder of the dangers of manipulation and the importance of safeguarding ones autonomy.
The documentary also explores the rapid growth of the 7M Films talent management company, founded in 2021, which represented influencers, particularly those on TikTok. The success of these influencers seemed to be tied directly to the church. This is yet another aspect of the story which has raised important questions about the blurred lines between faith, business, and personal freedom. It also demonstrates the speed at which the organization grew.
The story of Robert Shinn is not only a cautionary tale about the dangers of cults and the misuse of power, but also raises critical questions about the interplay of faith, fame, and the pursuit of success. As legal proceedings continue, and public scrutiny persists, it remains to be seen how this complex narrative will ultimately unfold.
