Leah Remini Criticizes LA Station for Broadcasting a Half-Hour Ad for Scientology
Leah Remini is speaking out against NBC Los Angeles following the station’s airing of an advertisement for the Church of Scientology. In a post shared via X on December 29, the 55-year-old actress expressed her disapproval, stating, “Scientology has often bought 30-second and 1-minute TV ads (mostly on local television). It is something I strongly object to, but allowing Scientology to buy a full 30-minute block of airtime is unacceptable.”
Remini further stated that individuals unfamiliar with Scientology could mistakenly believe the program was produced or endorsed by NBC. “Someone who knows nothing about Scientology and happened to watch this program would not realize that it was a paid advertisement and might reasonably assume it was programming produced or endorsed by NBC, which could lead them into Scientology,” she added.
In light of her concerns, Us Weekly has reached out to both NBC Los Angeles and the Church of Scientology for their comments.
July marked the twelfth anniversary of Remini’s departure from the Church of Scientology. Following her decision to leave the organization, she authored a memoir titled Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology and also starred in the Emmy-winning docuseries, Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath.
In response to Remini’s criticism, the Church of Scientology released a statement on its website. The organization claimed she was “expelled” due to “repeated ethical lapses” and accused her of harassing the church.
Remini urged her supporters to voice their concerns to NBC Los Angeles, describing the situation as a “serious mistake” and imploring the network to refrain from allowing Scientology to purchase airtime in the future. “For a major network to present this material in this way is deeply alarming,” she stated. “I understand that Scientology has been purchasing increasing amounts of advertising time across the country, but this crosses a line.”
In a June cover story with Us Weekly, Remini reflected on her life after leaving Scientology, highlighting her personal growth and resolve. “I’ve learned just how strong I really was. I was willing to stand up for what I believed in,” she remarked, emphasizing her commitment to raising awareness about the controversies surrounding the church.
When asked about her current religious beliefs, Remini shared that she believes in God and does not impose her religious views on her daughter, Sofia. “I was baptized [as a] Catholic when I was a child. I don’t force religious beliefs on myself or my daughter, but I believe in God and in faith,” she explained. “As Mike Rinder said, ‘If you want to know the difference between a real religion and Scientology, look at what they do when you leave.’”
