Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV

"Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV" is a five-part documentary series that delves into the behind-the-scenes world of children's television, particularly focusing on the late 1990s to the early 2000s and Dan Schneider's tenure as a producer and showrunner on Nickelodeon. The series, which premiered on Investigation Discovery, Max, and Discovery+, garnered attention for its revelations about the industry's darker aspects.

Throughout the series, viewers are taken on a chronological journey through Schneider's career, starting with his breakout hit "All That" in 1994. Interviews with former writers Christy Stratton and Jenny Kilgen shed light on allegations of underpayment and a misogynistic culture in the writers' room under Schneider's leadership.

The documentary also explores the experiences of actors who worked on Schneider's productions, including former actress Alexa Nikolas, who shares her perspective on working on "Zoey 101." However, it's in the third episode that the series takes a darker turn. Actor Drake Bell reveals his experience of being sexually abused by former Nickelodeon dialogue coach Brian Peck, who was arrested and charged with child sexual abuse in 2003.

Further revelations include the admission by production assistant Jason Michael Handy of being a "pedophile, full-blown," along with sending sexually explicit photographs to a former child actress. Handy was subsequently sentenced to six years in prison in 2004.

Following the release of the series, it received positive reviews from audiences and critics alike, with praise for shedding light on the industry's less-discussed issues. However, criticism was directed at the documentary for not delving deeper into Nickelodeon's workplace culture. The series sparked discussions on social media about industry practices concerning child actors, the loss of innocence, and the price of fame for young stars.

Additionally, the release of an apology video by Dan Schneider on his YouTube channel further fueled conversations among Nickelodeon stars and individuals featured in the documentary, as well as prompting public rejection of support for Brian Peck from those who had previously written letters on his behalf during his trial.

"Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV" brings to light the complexities and challenges faced by those working in children's television, raising important questions about accountability, workplace culture, and the protection of young talent in the industry.