If you grew up in the ’90s, chances are you immersed yourself in Nickelodeon classics like The Amanda Show and All That. However, Nickelodeon has faced persistent controversies, particularly concerning allegations of child abuse within the studio. Now, ID’s Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV series has garnered immense attention online and secured approval for a fifth episode. Titled Breaking the Silence, this upcoming segment will once again spotlight former Nickelodeon child stars from the early 2000s, including Drake Bell. The series delves into the unsettling and hazardous behind-the-scenes environment of beloved children’s TV shows from the late ’90s and early 2000s, shedding light on allegations of abuse, sexism, and racism.
Bell, along with All That alumni Giovonnie Samuels and Bryan Hearne, who was accompanied by his mother, were early participants in the series’ conception and production. Joining them in the upcoming episode is another familiar face from “All That,” Shane Lyons.
Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV has stormed the screens, captivating a staggering 16 million viewers and securing its place as the top unscripted series on Max from the get-go, as revealed by ID and Max/Discovery+. Leading the charge once again is journalist Soledad O’Brien, ready to spark compelling discussions in the upcoming episode. With over 16 million viewers tuning in, Quiet on Set sheds light on the unsettling truths lurking within Dan Schneider’s empire, unveiling disturbing patterns of abuse and manipulation, including chilling accounts of child predators on set.
Soledad O’Brien takes the lead in Breaking the Silence, shaping the industry’s response to recent revelations. Bell’s brave acknowledgment of abuse by his former dialogue coach, Brian Peck, stands out in “Quiet on Set,” shining a light on the disturbing truths. Jason Sarlanis, overseeing TNT, TBS, TruTV, ID & HLN’s linear and streaming platforms, stresses the series’ pivotal role in tackling urgent issues and amplifying voices that deserve attention. Tune in for the premiere of “Breaking the Silence” on Sunday, April 7 at 8/7c on ID, following the original series debut on March 17.
Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV is helmed by directors Mary Robertson and Emma Schwartz, with production handled by Maxine Productions and Sony Pictures Television – Nonfiction, in collaboration with Business Insider.
Codie Allen is a passionate trans and queer film critic and entertainment writer based in Orlando, FL. A Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic, Dorian Awards member, and CACF member, they also contribute to The Curb and InSession Film. When they’re not writing about films, you can find them sipping way too much tea and listening to Taylor Swift.
