Former "King of Queens" actor Leah Remini has a message for those interested in pursuing a college degree later in life: "It's never too late to continue your education."
Remini, 53, shared on social media that she achieved an associate's degree from New York University — a goal she's been working on for the past three years. Remini mentioned that she started this "challenging journey" after only completing eighth grade and spending 35 years in a "totalitarian cult," referencing the Church of Scientology.
"I've yearned for a higher education for a long time but hesitated because I believed I wasn't intelligent enough," she explained. "Even though I had broken free from Scientology, the indoctrination of three decades still had a hold on me."
With the encouragement of loved ones, she pushed forward in her pursuit. The judge of "So You Think You Can Dance?" informed her supporters that she is now working towards obtaining a bachelor's degree.
"No matter your background, whether you were once part of a controlling cult, a dedicated stay-at-home parent, or juggling multiple jobs, it's never too late to pursue your education and chase your dreams!" she exclaimed.
Renowned for her vocal opposition to the Church of Scientology, Remini severed ties with the organization in 2013 after a lifelong membership. Last year, she took legal action against the church and its leader, David Miscavige, citing a litany of offenses including harassment, surveillance, and defamation.
In a recent development, certain aspects of the lawsuit were dismissed by a judge, who ruled that some of the church's actions are protected by the First Amendment. Nevertheless, the judge also determined that the church cannot seek refuge in free speech rights for allegedly engaging in harassing and monitoring activities against Remini and individuals linked to her anti-Scientology podcast.
