Josh Peck, former co-star of the hit Nickelodeon show Drake & Josh, has finally spoken out about the revelations brought to light in the docuseries “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV”. This comes after the documentary delved into the dark past of the industry, uncovering allegations of abuse and misconduct.
In an Instagram post dated March 21, Peck expressed his support for Drake Bell, his former colleague on the show. He revealed that it took him a few days to process the information presented in the documentary, and he had privately reached out to Bell. Peck emphasized his solidarity with the survivors who bravely shared their stories of abuse while working on Nickelodeon sets.
The documentary shed light on Bell’s revelation that he was the unnamed minor involved in the 2004 sexual assault case against Brian Peck, an acting coach hired for Nickelodeon’s “All That”. Peck, who is not related to Josh Peck, was convicted and sentenced to prison for his crimes.
Peck stressed the importance of protecting children in the industry and expressed hope that the documentary would lead to necessary changes and healing for the victims and their families.
Drake Bell had previously called for understanding and support for Josh Peck, revealing that they had connected behind the scenes. Nickelodeon also issued a statement expressing dismay over Bell’s trauma and offering support to him.
The documentary also examined allegations against Dan Schneider, the creator of several Nickelodeon sitcoms, including Drake & Josh. Schneider responded to the claims, acknowledging his past behaviors and expressing regret for any harm caused. However, he maintained that his behavior was not inappropriate and attributed any negative perceptions to his high standards.
Drake Bell’s testimony in the docuseries revealed the extent of the abuse he endured at the hands of Brian Peck. He recounted instances where Peck manipulated situations to isolate him and subjected him to sexual assault. Bell’s bravery in sharing his story underscores the importance of speaking out against abuse, even in the face of fear and stigma.
The documentary also explored the support network Peck had in Hollywood, with several prominent figures writing letters of support on his behalf during his sentencing. However, some individuals expressed regret for standing by Peck, acknowledging that they were unaware of the full extent of the allegations at the time.
The revelations in “Quiet on Set” extend beyond Bell’s experiences, highlighting broader issues within the entertainment industry. Former cast members from Schneider’s shows recounted instances of discomfort and mistreatment, underscoring the need for a safer and more equitable work environment for all.
As the fallout from the documentary continues, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for systemic change within the entertainment industry. Peck’s statement reflects a step towards acknowledging and addressing the issues raised, but there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of all those involved in children’s television.
