Leah Remini is speaking out about the challenges she and her daughter Sofia have faced since leaving the Church of Scientology in 2013. The actress claims the organization has targeted her family with harassment and surveillance. “It’s difficult to say it’s gotten easier when I have a multimillion-dollar organization terrorizing me and my family,” Remini said.
“When you’re hunted, your daughter is followed, and there is constant surveillance.”
A representative for the Church of Scientology denied Remini’s allegations, stating, “There has never existed a shred of evidence to support, let alone prove, any of her outlandish claims.”
Remini filed a lawsuit against the Church in August 2023, alleging harassment of her and her daughter. A trial is scheduled for October. Despite the difficulties, Remini has no regrets about leaving Scientology.
She credits therapy with helping her heal from over 30 years in the organization. “There are good days and bad days, but in general, it’s been worth it,” she said. “My heart has opened up so much.”
Remini shared that the Church controls every aspect of members’ lives.
“Once your parents become Scientologists, they’re no longer your parents.
Harassment and surveillance claims
You’re being raised by Scientology,” she explained.
The actress said the final straw was when she was told to disconnect from her mother and stepfather for violating Scientology law. She also questioned the disappearance of Shelly Miscavige, wife of Scientology leader David Miscavige. Remini turned to former Scientologist Mike Rinder for support when considering leaving.
Rinder, who left in 2007, passed away recently. The actress said she will continue advocating for victims in Rinder’s honor. “If it was debilitating to Sofia, I might pass the torch.
But she doesn’t want me to give up and Mike wouldn’t want me to give up,” Remini stated. Remini believes Scientology has been exposed in recent years, citing the conviction of actor Danny Masterson for rape. She said famous Scientologists like Tom Cruise and John Travolta have become less vocal because “they’ve been exposed for what they truly believe in.”
As for her own journey, Remini shared, “Fighting against an oppressive system takes a toll, but it’s worth it when you reclaim your life and help others do the same.”
