Few actresses have captivated audiences for as long or created as much positive change as Brooklyn native Leah Remini. For over 30 years, her trademark wit, honesty, and down-to-earth charm have made Remini one of the most beloved personalities in Hollywood. Get to know the incredible life story of this multi-talented star.
All About Leah Remini
Full Name: Leah Marie Remini
Birthday: June 15, 1970
Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York
Parents: Vicki Marshall, George Remini
Siblings: 1 older sister, 1 half-sister
Spouse: Angelo Pagan (m. 2003)
Children: Daughter Sofia Bella (b. 2004)
Net Worth: Estimated $25 million
Social Media: Facebook Twitter Instagram
Humble Brooklyn Beginnings
Leah Remini was born in Brooklyn, New York on June 15, 1970. Her mother Vicki was a schoolteacher and her father George owned an asbestos company. Remini‘s parents divorced when she was young. Financial struggles forced the family to move to a low-income neighborhood in Brooklyn where Remini grew up alongside her older sister Shannon.
At age 9, Remini and her mother converted to Scientology. Remini later relocated to Los Angeles as a teenager to pursue acting. She landed her first role at 18 on the sitcom Who‘s the Boss? starring Tony Danza. This kicked off a prolific career in Hollywood spanning decades.
Breakout Success on The King of Queens
Remini‘s talent and comedic timing shone in her breakout role as the feisty, opinionated Carrie Heffernan on the CBS sitcom The King of Queens opposite Kevin James. The hit show ran for 9 seasons from 1998-2007 and became one of the most beloved family comedies of its era. Remini won the role when she was 7 months pregnant. She earned critical acclaim and multiple award nominations for playing Carrie.
Leaving Scientology and Exposing Abuses
After spending over 30 years in the Church of Scientology, Remini left the organization in 2013. She spoke out about the restrictive environment and abuses she witnessed as a member. In 2016, Remini created the docuseries Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath to give a voice to other former members with chilling stories of trauma and manipulation. The groundbreaking show went on to win multiple Emmys.
Activism and Advocacy
True to her outspoken Brooklyn roots, Remini uses her platform to champion causes close to her heart. She is an advocate for women‘s empowerment, diversity in Hollywood, and acceptance of the LGBTQ community. Leah and her husband Angelo co-founded the charity The Aftermath Foundation to assist those who have left toxic organizations.
What‘s Next for Leah Remini
Leah Remini continues to shine on screen while fighting for positive change. She starred in the Kevin James sitcom Kevin Can Wait from 2016-2018. Remini also reunited with James in the 2022 Netflix comedy The Crew. Given her boundless tenacity, there‘s no limit to what this inspiring Brooklyn girl can accomplish. Leah Remini‘s extraordinary journey serves as a reminder that with courage and conviction, anyone can make a difference.