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Nickelodeon’s Drake Bell has openly criticized “Boy Meets World” actors Will Friedle and Rider Strong for previously supporting Brian Peck, who was convicted of abuse. Bell is sharing his story of abuse by Peck in the new docuseries “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV,” which premieres tonight on Investigation Discovery. The series reveals previously sealed court documents from Peck’s trial, including letters of support for Peck from Friedle, Strong, James Marsden, Taran Killam, and the late Alan Thicke. Alex Nikolas, another Nickelodeon star featured in the documentary, condemned the “Boy Meets World” actors on Instagram, with Bell responding to fans suggesting they too were victims of Peck.
In a revealing Instagram post, Drake Bell called out Will Friedle and Rider Strong for their support letters to his alleged abuser, Brian Peck. Bell shared that despite Friedle and Strong being aware of Peck’s actions, they chose to support him. Years later, Friedle worked with Bell and never mentioned the support letters, which were expected to remain sealed. Bell’s comments suggest a calculated move, guided by publicists, to manage the story’s public perception.
Friedle and Strong have not yet responded to requests for comments from Fox News Digital. The actors recently discussed their support for Peck on their podcast, “Pod Meets World,” acknowledging their failure to see the truth behind Peck’s manipulation. They shared their shock upon learning of Peck’s crimes, admitting they were misled by his portrayal of the events.
Bell’s participation in the documentary “Quiet on Set” sheds light on the dark aspects of children’s television, revealing his personal experience of abuse by Peck during his time at Nickelodeon. Bell recounts a particularly traumatic incident at the age of 15, marking the beginning of a series of abusive encounters. Despite the difficulty in discussing these events, Bell’s courage in coming forward is evident.
Peck faced charges of child molestation in 2003, resulting in a conviction for a lewd act against a child and oral copulation of a person under 16, leading to a 16-month prison sentence. In response to Bell’s revelations, Nickelodeon expressed deep sadness and support for the strength it took for him to come forward.
This story highlights the importance of addressing and acknowledging the experiences of abuse survivors, encouraging an open dialogue and support for those affected.