Quiet on Set released a bonus episode featuring updates and new claims from former Nickelodeon alums who were originally featured in the docuseries. The new episode started with interviews with Drake Bell, Giovonnie Samuels, and Bryane Hearne, who spoke about their experiences on set. Bell specifically opened up about being sexually abused by dialogue coach Brian Peck and explained why he decided to participate in the docuseries after initially saying no.
Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV shed light on the negative experiences of former child stars and crew members on the sets of shows produced by Dan Schneider, including All That and The Amanda Show. Bell used the platform to speak out about his abuse case against Peck, who was convicted in 2004. Samuels and Hearne also praised the directors for their approach and creating a safe environment for sharing their stories. The docuseries is currently streaming on Max.
Drake Bell addressed the response to his story about Peck and shared that he has been in touch with his former Drake & Josh costar, Josh Peck, out of the public eye. The bonus episode also revealed letters of support written to the judge in Brian’s case and discussed the reactions of other former colleagues who had previously shown support for Peck but later walked back their statements. Bell shared his perspective on forgiveness and understanding people’s different reactions to trauma.
The docuseries featured interviews with cast and crew members discussing their negative experiences with Dan Schneider, who later issued a public apology for his behavior. Bell was one of the only participants who spoke positively about his interactions with Schneider. The overall reaction to Schneider’s apology among other participants was mixed, with some questioning the sincerity of his words and others expressing disappointment at being overlooked in his response.
Giovonnie Samuels revealed that she received a phone call from Dan Schneider before the docuseries aired, in which he requested her support. Samuels expressed her fear and intimidation towards Schneider and her reluctance to provide a supportive quote. Bonus footage included discussions about controversial skits and interactions on set, including one involving spitting in a costar’s face. The docuseries prompted Shane Lyons to speak out about his experiences on All That and interactions with Brian Peck. Lyons described an incident in which Peck made inappropriate advances towards him.
Lyons emphasized the importance of updating laws to prevent convicted child molesters from being on Hollywood sets. He called attention to a loophole in the law that allows individuals to be on set as long as a guardian or parent is present, without requiring a background check. Lyons highlighted the need for stricter protective measures for child actors in the industry. The bonus episode provided further insight into the experiences of former child stars and crew members on the set of children’s TV shows, sparking important conversations about accountability and safety in the entertainment industry.
