Former Disney Channel directors Beth and Rich Correll have issued an apology for their past support of Brian Peck, a former Nickelodeon dialogue coach who faced sexual abuse allegations from Drake & Josh star Drake Peck. In a statement to Variety, the Corrells expressed deep regret for their decision to request leniency for Peck, who was later found guilty of committing a horrible crime.
In a recent docuseries titled Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV, former Nickelodeon actors and employees shed light on gender discrimination lawsuits, sexual assault allegations, sexual innuendos in skits, and a disturbing work environment within the network. In the series, Drake Bell, known for his roles in All That and The Amanda Show, reveals his close bond with Peck, who allegedly began sexually assaulting him when he was 15 years old.
Bell recounts how Peck would invite him to stay at his Los Angeles home, celebrate his birthdays, and even take him to Disneyland. Feeling trapped and unable to escape the abuse, Bell describes the traumatic experiences he endured. Following his arrest in 2003, Peck pleaded no contest to child sexual abuse charges, serving jail time and registering as a sex offender.
The Corrells, along with actors James Marsden, Taran Killam, Will Friedle, and Rider Strong, wrote letters of support for Peck during his court case. Notably, former Nickelodeon showrunner Dan Schneider, who had been described as intimidating by former actors, did not write a letter.
The safety of children has always been a priority for the Corrells, who express their deep sadness and shock upon learning the extent of the allegations and revelations presented in Quiet on Set. They emphasize that they would never knowingly put any child in harm’s way.
Regarding Peck’s involvement in Disney Channel’s The Suite Life of Zack & Cody after his release from prison, the Corrells clarify that they had no input or involvement in his casting. Peck assured them that the issue had been resolved when they inquired about the case.
A fifth episode of the docuseries, titled “Breaking the Silence,” will be released on Investigation Discovery, followed by availability for streaming on HBO Max. This episode will feature discussions from former participants like Drake Bell, Giovonnie Samuels, Bryan Hearne, and Shane Lyons, focusing on the child entertainment industry’s future steps.
Implications and Future Trends
The revelations and allegations presented in Quiet on Set shed light on the dark underbelly of the kids’ TV industry, implicating individuals previously revered for their contributions to beloved childhood shows. This serves as a wake-up call for the industry and demands immediate action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of child actors.
First and foremost, measures must be put in place to create a safe working environment for children in the entertainment industry. Strict background checks should be conducted on all individuals involved in children’s shows, from directors to dialogue coaches, to prevent potential predators from exploiting their positions.
Moreover, it is crucial that child actors are provided with a support system to report any instances of abuse or inappropriate behavior. This system should include trusted individuals within the production team or dedicated child welfare professionals who can ensure that proper investigations are carried out and necessary action is taken.
Additionally, ongoing education and awareness programs should be implemented to inform child actors, their parents, and industry professionals about the warning signs of abuse and how to report any concerns. By equipping everyone involved with the knowledge and tools to prevent and address abuse, the industry can take a significant step towards protecting its young talents.
Furthermore, there is a need for increased accountability and transparency within the children’s TV industry. Production companies, networks, and individuals in positions of power must be held responsible for any enabling or turning a blind eye to abuse. This includes severing professional ties with individuals who have been found guilty or implicated in abusive behavior, as well as implementing protocols to prevent such individuals from working with children in the future.
Overall, the revelations from Quiet on Set serve as a pivotal moment for the children’s TV industry. It is a call to action and a reminder that the safety and wellbeing of young actors must take precedence over all else. By implementing comprehensive measures and creating a culture of accountability, the industry can strive towards providing a safe and nurturing environment for the next generation of talent.