The documentary "Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV" is a poignant examination of the shadows cast by Nickelodeon's golden era of children's television. Airing in March 2024, this four-part series uncovers disturbing stories from behind the scenes of beloved shows like "All That," "The Amanda Show," "Drake & Josh," and "Zoey 101," which were instrumental in defining Nickelodeon's success from the late 1990s through the early 2010s. The documentary, notably focusing on the tenure of Dan Schneider, a figure synonymous with Nickelodeon's hit programming, delves deep into allegations of abuse and misconduct that marred the network's reputation.

‍

One of the most harrowing revelations comes from Drake Bell, who candidly discusses the sexual assault he suffered at the hands of Brian Peck, a figure involved in the production of "The Amanda Show." Bell's account is both heart-wrenching and a stark reminder of the industry's dark corners, with his experience leading to a police sting and Peck's arrest, though the scars from those events continue to impact Bell's life.

‍

‍

The series doesn't shy away from addressing other critical issues, including allegations of gender discrimination and inappropriate behavior towards female staff by Dan Schneider. Former writers Jenny Kilgen and Christy Stratton recount a workplace environment that was particularly hostile to women, detailing incidents of demeaning treatment and intimidation that highlight systemic issues within the industry.

‍

Critically acclaimed, "Quiet on Set" has received unanimous praise for its journalistic integrity and the courage of its interviewees to speak out. The documentary has been commended for its potential to influence public attitudes toward the treatment of child actors in Hollywood, echoing broader movements for accountability and reform within the entertainment industry.

‍

"Quiet on Set" is a critical watch, not just for fans of Nickelodeon's classic programming, but for anyone interested in the complexities of child stardom and the imperative for safer, more respectful workplaces in the entertainment industry. You can watch "Quiet on Set" on Max, Discovery Plus, Hulu & many other streaming platforms.

‍