The Church of Scientology is one of the most mysterious religious organizations in the world. People are either unaware of the church or they only know about the major headlines and scandals associated with it. “Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath” is a docuseries on the A&E network created to expose the cruel nature of the church.
Remini is most known for her role on the sitcom “The King of Queens.” However, what many may not know is that she was a scientologist for over 30 years. Remini hosts this program and guides the conversation to give a voice to victims of the organization. The show discusses how she and others respected the teachings of the church and the idea of spiritual fulfillment, but also how the demands of the church are far too high.
One of the reoccurring topics on “Scientology and the Aftermath” are the claims of being abused by the leader of Scientology, David Miscavige. The show features a variety of former high-ranking officials from the church who tell their stories of being brutally attacked by the leader. Whenever something would go wrong, or an event did not go as planned, Miscavige would allegedly attack them for what he called their own “digressions.”
Another topic that is tackled on the show is the church’s use of “disconnection.” This is a process of dropping all contact with former members of Scientology after they split. In many instances, there are family members who are forced by church officials to disconnect and never speak to the person who left again. Many of the victims on the show have family members who are still in the church but are not allowed any form of contact.
Remini herself feared disconnection when she was thinking of leaving the church, but luckily convinced her family to go with her. If they had stayed, it is likely that she would have never heard from them again. Remini says, “Fight for your family. Fight for your daughters and sons. Get them out of this thing.”
“Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath” is an extremely eye-opening docuseries that is worth a watch for anyone curious about the religion. Hearing from former high-ranking officials who barely escaped the organization is chilling. Is it a cult? Is it an actual religion? Would a religion actually treat their followers this way? Watch “Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath” on A&E to find out more.