Leah Remini on Leaving Scientology: “We Lost Friends Who Can No Longer Talk to Us”

Leah Remini is finally talking about leaving the Church of Scientology.

During her guest appearance on the season premiere of "Ellen" Monday, and her first TV interview since deciding to leave Scientology, the former "King of Queens" actress addressed her defection from the religion in July and explained that her decision had its consequences.

"We lost friends who can no longer talk to us who are still in the organization," Remini told Ellen DeGeneres, confirming that people who are still members of the church are not allowed to talk to people who've left the organization and vice versa.

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"But we have other friends, who are not in the church, who have stood by us and that's all we can ask for," Remini added.

The celeb didn't get too in-depth when it came to her reasoning for leaving the church, but said, "My mother got involved when we were very young, so it's all we really knew. But over time, my eyes got opened and I could just no longer be affiliated with the organization, and my family felt the same, so we left."

In early July, it was reported that Remini had decided to quit the controversial religion, citing a source's claim that the 43-year-old actress had been subjected to years of "interrogations" and "thought modification," along with policies preventing members to question the leadership of David Miscavige.

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Remini later issued a statement to People: "I wish to share my sincere and heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming positive response I have received from the media, my colleagues, and from fans around the world. I am truly grateful and thankful for all your support."

Remini isn't the first famous face to leave the church. Others include Nicole Kidman and writer-director Paul Haggis.

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