Ex-Scientologist Actor: Return My $120K

After 33 years, Larry Anderson wants out
By Marie Morris,  Newser Staff
Posted Jan 24, 2010 4:20 PM CST

After 33 years as a Scientologist and a star turn in a widely disseminated orientation video, actor Larry Anderson wants out—and he wants his money back. Anderson, a magician turned TV actor and game-show host, says the organization owes him $120,000. A Scientology rep tells the St. Petersburg Times Anderson's payments were donations, and "any refund of donations lies within the sole discretion of the church."

During a meeting with the rep last February, which Anderson taped, the actor said, "I've decided I no longer want to be a Scientologist. And since I put a lot of money on account, I want that money back" The action is a crushing blow because of Anderson's prominent role in the 1996 film, cleverly titled Orientation, which has been shown around the world to recruits and members alike. In the clip above, you can see Anderson warning: "If you leave this room after seeing this film and walk out and never mention Scientology again, you are perfectly free to do so. It would be stupid. But you can do it. You can also dive off a bridge or blow your brains out."
(More Scientology stories.)

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