Actress Leah Remini is suing the Church of Scientology over allegations she has suffered “psychological torture”, threats and harassment for several years.
The star, who rose to fame in shows such as Saved By The Bell and is best known for The King Of Queens series, is a former member of the church who joined as a child, but has since become one of its most prominent public opponents.
The 53-year-old claims she has been the victim of “intentional malicious and fraudulent rumors via hundreds of Scientology-controlled and coordinated social media accounts that exist solely to intimidate and spread misinformation”, according to a lawsuit filed at Los Angeles Superior Court, reported by Sky News’ US partner network NBC News.
Remini, who left the movement in 2013, co-created and hosted an anti-Scientology documentary series, Leah Remini: Scientology And The Aftermath, which aired from 2016 to 2019 and won two Emmy awards.
She is suing the church and leader David Miscavige, saying she does not believe she is the religion’s first alleged victim, “but I intend to be the last”.
“For 17 years, Scientology and David Miscavige have subjected me to what I believe to be psychological torture, defamation, surveillance, harassment, and intimidation, significantly impacting my life and career,” the star said in a statement.
