People Magazine Investigates‘ is launching a two-hour special focused on the University of Cosmic Intelligence cult. Airing on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 on ID, the special presentation does a deep dive into the cult and its prophet, Rashad Jamal, who established the cult during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“People Magazine Investigates: The University of Cosmic Intelligence Cult reflects the thoughtful, rigorous reporting that defines PEOPLE’s journalism. By centering the experiences of survivors and those closest to the story, we sought to bring a deeper understanding to a complex case that raises important questions about online influence, vulnerability, and the search for belonging,” stated Charlotte Triggs, Editor-in-Chief and General Manager, PEOPLE.
The special is produced by Radley Studios and PEOPLE Magazine for Investigation Discovery.
“In 2020, during the peak of the COVID 19 pandemic, aspiring rapper and self-proclaimed ‘prophet’ Rashad Jamal took to social media to preach messages of community during an incredibly divisive and challenging time. With many individuals turning to the digital world for connection in response to the increasing isolation during the pandemic and the widespread social unrest after the murder of George Floyd, Jamal’s University of Cosmic Intelligence quickly amassed a following of those who aligned with his messages on empowerment, identity, and politics.
However, as his following grew, Jamal’s messaging began to devolve; dangerous conspiracy theories and calls for isolation and ultimately violence plunged the University of Cosmic Intelligence into a much darker world, with six of Jamal’s followers disappearing in 2023.”