i think the term "D has a cult following" is a bit harsh
D's community is small, that is it, nothing cult like, they dont over defend D most of the community seem to be happy using other languages etc ..
but i agree with D being a kitchen sink language, trying to be many things, but never being the absolute best at anything, which i think is why it never really took off
i am really hopeful for Zig, trying to be a more pragmatic C replacement