I’ve blogged a few times on actress and ex-Scientologist Leah Remini’s series exposing the abuses and fraud of the Church of Scientology. It’s been marvelous to watch Remini and her sidekick Mike Rinder blow the lid off the sorry con-job which is the so-called “religion” created by Lafayette R. Hubbard. Sadly, though, as the Hollywood Reporter explains, the wonderfulness of Scientology and the Aftermath has reached its end (Archive.Is cached article):
Leah Remini is calling it a day on Scientology and the Aftermath. The actress and activist, who’s been an outspoken critic of the deeply controversial organization since her own exit in 2013, has decided to wrap A&E’s Emmy-winning docuseries after three seasons.
Scientology and the Aftermath’s final episode, a two-hour special filmed in front of a live studio audience of former members, will focus on testimonials alleging that Scientology policies have hindered members from reporting instances of sexual assault and physical violence to the authorities. It is set to air Monday, Aug. 26.
The 2-hour finale will include mention of allegations against Scientologist actor Danny Masterson, who’s been under investigation, and who — along with CoS — has just been sued over his actions (cached).
That decision is interesting, given that earlier this year, an episode of the show devoted to Masterson had been shelved by network executives after some agitation by CoS. The Hollywood Reporter includes a brief interview with Remini (cached) going over the end of the show and addressing the Masterson episode being derailed, among other things.
I’m actually surprised her show got as far as it did. It’s run for 3 seasons and, by the time it’s done, will have aired 37 episodes. That’s a substantial amount of airtime, and the show’s popularity has really cast a spotlight on CoS’s excesses. Still, Scientology has managed largely to escape any legal ramifications, despite the revelations Remini, Rinder and their guests have provided, and so far they’ve retained their tax-exempt status. More’s the pity.
Ed. to add: Mike Rinder posted an announcement re: the end of the series on his blog (cached).
Photo credit: The Underground Bunker (Tony Ortega).
