Chuck Lorre reveals Jenna Elfman refused to work with him

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 14:20 · Archive

TV creator Chuck Lorre writes in his memoir that Scientologist Jenna Elfman refused to work with him after learning he left the religion.

TV creator Chuck Lorre writes in his new memoir 'Sitcom' that Scientologist Jenna Elfman refused to work with him after learning he had left the religion. The pair previously worked together on the sitcom 'Dharma & Greg', which ran from 1997 to 2002 and starred Elfman and Thomas Gibson as a married couple. Lorre co-created the series and served as an executive producer.

After the show ended, Lorre approached Elfman about starring in another project. According to his memoir, Elfman told him she could not work with him because he was a 'blown Scientologist' and therefore a 'suppressive person'—a term in Scientology for someone who actively hinders the religion's progress. Lorre writes that he found this response upsetting and told her to leave.

Lorre was introduced to Scientology as a struggling musician in Columbus, Ohio, through its communication course. He eventually joined the Sea Org and signed an employment contract for one billion years, though he lasted only two days. He later became disillusioned with the organisation and left, along with his first wife Paula, who was also a Scientologist. A spokesperson for Elfman did not respond to requests for comment on the claim.

How it is being reported

• 'Big Bang Theory' stars were 'outraged' over request to take pay cut for new co-stars, Chuck Lorre claimsChuck Lorre's memoir "Sitcom" reveals Charlie Sheen's final chaotic day on set, his Scientology past and CBS initially rejecting Melissa McCarthy.Fox News · 15 Oct, 14:00
• Scientologist sitcom star refused to work with ‘suppressive’ Chuck Lorre — and he’s calling her outThe prolific TV creator claims he told the Scientology star where to go.New York Post · 13 Oct, 21:35

In this story: Chuck Lorre · Jenna Elfman · Scientology · Thomas Gibson

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