Sofia Bella Pagan may not be a household name yet, but she’s known to millions as the beloved daughter of actress and television personality Leah Remini and actor-musician Angelo Pagan. Growing up as the child of two entertainers, Sofia’s life has been filled with love, creativity, and strong family values. But beyond her celebrity background, she holds a unique place in her mother’s story—she’s the reason Leah Remini made one of the biggest decisions of her life: leaving the Church of Scientology.
In this article, we’ll explore who Sofia Bella Pagan is, what her early life was like, and how she influenced her mother’s path toward faith, freedom, and family. You’ll also learn about her personal growth, creative interests, and the close-knit family that has always put love before fame.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Sofia Bella Pagan
Date Of Birth: June 16, 2004
Place Of Birth: Los Angeles, California, USA
Parents: Leah Remini and Angelo Pagan
Nationality: American
Religion: Catholic (formerly Scientology family)
Known For: Daughter of Leah Remini and Angelo Pagan
Siblings: Three stepbrothers from her father’s previous marriages
First TV Appearance: Leah Remini: It’s All Relative (2014)
Famous For: Inspiring her mother’s departure from Scientology
Early Life And Family Background
Sofia Bella Pagan was born on June 16, 2004, in Los Angeles, California. From the start, she was surrounded by the warmth and energy of a family deeply rooted in both entertainment and culture. Her mother, Leah Remini, is best known for her role as Carrie Heffernan on the long-running CBS sitcom The King of Queens. Her father, Angelo Pagan, is a talented singer, actor, and entrepreneur who has worked in television, film, and music.
Sofia’s upbringing was filled with creativity and laughter. She grew up watching her parents balance demanding Hollywood careers with their most important role—being loving and present parents. Leah and Angelo, both known for their strong personalities and humor, have always emphasized family connection and open communication.
Despite her parents’ fame, Sofia’s childhood was grounded. Leah made it a priority to give her daughter a stable home life, shielding her from the more chaotic sides of celebrity culture.
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Meet Her Parents: Leah Remini And Angelo Pagan
Sofia’s parents share a love story that has stood the test of time. Leah and Angelo met in the late 1990s and dated for several years before tying the knot on July 19, 2003. Their wedding was a joyful event attended by family and friends, marking the start of a marriage built on deep respect and partnership.
Leah Remini rose to fame as one of television’s most recognizable comedic actresses. Beyond The King of Queens, she starred in Kevin Can Wait, Old School, and In the Motherhood. She also created and hosted the powerful documentary series Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath, which won an Emmy for its honest storytelling.
Angelo Pagan, equally creative, has worked as a singer and performer, appearing in series like Swordfish and King of Queens, and releasing Latin-influenced music. He also runs a successful business and is known for his charisma both on and off stage. Together, the couple built a strong and loving family centered around Sofia.
Sofia Bella Pagan’s Role In Her Mother’s Break From Scientology
One of the most defining parts of Sofia’s story is how she inspired her mother to leave Scientology. Leah Remini had been raised in the Church since childhood, and for years, it was a central part of her life. But as Sofia grew older, Leah began questioning whether this was the right environment for her daughter.
When Sofia reached the age when children are typically introduced to Scientology’s teachings, Leah reflected on her own childhood in the Church—how it often meant putting the organization before family. She realized she didn’t want her daughter to experience the same emotional distance or restrictions she once did.
That realization became the turning point. Leah made the bold decision to leave the Church, choosing love, authenticity, and family over ideology. She has since spoken openly about how Sofia gave her the courage to walk away and start anew. In her memoir Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology, Leah credited her daughter with helping her see what truly mattered.
Growing Up In The Spotlight
As the daughter of two public figures, Sofia Bella Pagan has grown up in the spotlight—but Leah and Angelo have made sure she experiences a normal, grounded childhood. While Sofia has attended red-carpet events and occasionally appeared in the media, her parents have kept her private life mostly out of the public eye.
Leah often shares heartfelt posts about Sofia on social media, celebrating milestones like birthdays and graduations. Through these glimpses, fans see a warm and confident young woman who values family above fame.
Though she’s surrounded by Hollywood energy, Sofia’s upbringing has been about authenticity, kindness, and learning to find her own path outside her parents’ shadows.
Sofia Bella Pagan’s Early Appearances And Creative Side
Sofia has inherited her parents’ creative spirit. In 2014, she appeared alongside her family in the TLC reality series Leah Remini: It’s All Relative, a lighthearted and intimate look at their family life. Viewers loved seeing Leah’s sharp humor and Angelo’s easy charm—but many were drawn to Sofia’s down-to-earth personality and natural confidence.
Two years later, in 2016, Sofia made a fun cameo in pop star JoJo Siwa’s hit music video Boomerang, where she played one of the “mean girls.” The song, which promotes self-confidence and resilience, perfectly fit the values Leah and Angelo have instilled in their daughter.
While Sofia hasn’t pursued a public career so far, her early appearances show her ease in front of the camera and her interest in creative projects.
Education And Personal Growth
Sofia’s education has been a top priority for her parents. Leah and Angelo have both spoken about how important it is for their daughter to have a strong academic foundation and the freedom to choose her own path.
In 2022, Leah proudly shared moments from Sofia’s senior prom, expressing her bittersweet feelings about how quickly her daughter was growing up. That same year, Sofia graduated from high school and prepared to take her next steps toward college and adulthood.
Now in her twenties, Sofia continues to focus on her education and personal growth, exploring her interests away from the constant glare of Hollywood. Her parents have often said they’re proud of her independent mind and grounded nature.
Faith And New Beginnings
After leaving Scientology, Leah and her family embraced a new spiritual path. In 2015, Sofia was baptized as a Catholic, marking a new beginning for the entire family. Leah described the event as emotional and deeply meaningful, symbolizing their choice to live life on their own terms.
Faith has since become a personal, private matter for the family—rooted in gratitude, compassion, and community rather than rigid rules. Leah has said that raising Sofia with moral clarity and empathy is far more important than any label or institution.
Family Bonds And Stepbrothers
Though Sofia is Leah and Angelo’s only child together, she has three older stepbrothers from her father’s previous relationships. Angelo’s sons—born in 1986, 1988, and 1993—are part of a blended family that has remained close over the years.
Leah and Angelo have always encouraged open communication and togetherness, and Sofia shares a warm relationship with her stepbrothers. Family gatherings are often filled with laughter, music, and stories, reflecting the Pagan family’s deep love for one another.
Leah Remini On Motherhood
For Leah Remini, motherhood changed everything. She has often said that she didn’t truly understand love until she held Sofia for the first time. In interviews, Leah describes her daughter as the heart of her world—someone who gave her purpose, perspective, and strength.
Leah has also been candid about how motherhood helped her heal from her past experiences with Scientology. By focusing on her daughter, she learned to prioritize what truly matters: time, love, and emotional connection. Her openness about her journey has inspired countless other parents to reflect on their own family values.
Sofia Bella Pagan Today
Today, Sofia Bella Pagan is a young woman full of promise. Though she keeps her personal life private, it’s clear that she has inherited her parents’ drive and determination. Whether she decides to pursue a creative career or forge a completely different path, Sofia has a strong foundation built on love, integrity, and independence.
Leah and Angelo continue to support her every step of the way. From family trips to public celebrations, they remind the world that fame means little compared to family. Sofia stands as a symbol of hope, growth, and the power of breaking cycles.
Conclusion
Sofia Bella Pagan may have been born into fame, but her story is one of family, strength, and personal growth. She’s the young woman who helped her mother see life differently and inspired her to leave behind an entire belief system for the sake of love and truth.
Now entering adulthood, Sofia continues to build her own identity while remaining close to her parents. Her story reminds us that sometimes the greatest influence comes not from stars or stages but from the quiet, everyday bond between a parent and child.
FAQs About Sofia Bella Pagan
Who Is Sofia Bella Pagan?
Sofia Bella Pagan is the daughter of actress Leah Remini and actor-singer Angelo Pagan. She’s known for inspiring her mother to leave Scientology and for her appearances in family-related shows and media.
When Was Sofia Bella Pagan Born?
She was born on June 16, 2004, in Los Angeles, California.
Who Are Sofia Bella Pagan’s Parents?
Her parents are Leah Remini, a well-known actress and activist, and Angelo Pagan, a singer and actor.
Did Sofia Bella Pagan Appear On TV?
Yes, she appeared on her family’s TLC reality show Leah Remini: It’s All Relative and in JoJo Siwa’s music video Boomerang.
What Religion Does Sofia Bella Pagan Follow?
She was baptized Catholic in 2015 after her family left Scientology.
Does Sofia Bella Pagan Have Siblings?
She is an only child but has three older stepbrothers from her father’s previous marriages.
Where Is Sofia Bella Pagan Now?
As of 2025, Sofia is focused on her education and personal life. She keeps a low public profile while continuing to inspire through her family’s story.