Ned’s Declassified Stars Extend Apology to Drake Bell Over Abuse Comments

The former stars of “Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide” have issued a heartfelt apology to Drake Bell after facing backlash for comments made during a TikTok live session, which seemed to trivialize his experience of abuse.

Devon Werkheiser, Lindsey Shaw, and Daniel Curtis Lee found themselves in hot water earlier this week when their remarks during the live session sparked outrage online. However, Werkheiser clarified on the trio’s podcast that the comment, which appeared to poke fun at the “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” documentary exposing Drake Bell’s abuse, was taken out of context.

I know I just said I don’t like drama but immediately opening TikTok to see the Neds declassified crew joking about the victims that are coming forward from Dan Schneider and Nickelodeon is crazy gross. I started recording after “ yeah, we didn’t have the same experience as some… pic.twitter.com/u35o0kAuG8

— bbjess (@bbjessTTV) March 18, 2024

Explaining the situation, Werkheiser emphasized that they hadn’t seen the documentary at the time and were joking around without realizing the gravity of the situation. Expressing regret, he acknowledged, “We f—ked up. I get it.”

Having since watched the documentary, the group admitted they were unaware of the severity of the abuse suffered by Drake Bell at the hands of former Nickelodeon employee Brian Peck. Curtis Lee emphasized that their comment was directed towards him in a lighthearted manner typical of their banter, clarifying it wasn’t aimed at Bell.

Ned’s Declassless…this is wild…laugh it up guys…laugh it up…”Give me your h*les?!!” Really?! https://t.co/pD2ZYdd2gG

— DrakeBell.ethᵍᵐ (@DrakeBell) March 19, 2024

Their apology comes in the wake of Werkheiser being caught making a disturbing joke during the TikTok live, prompting Drake Bell to denounce their behavior as “declassless.” Werkheiser, deeply remorseful, expressed feeling awful upon realizing Bell’s reaction to their remarks.

Shaw, echoing Werkheiser’s sentiments, acknowledged their insensitivity and extended a heartfelt apology, recognizing the impact of their words on such a serious topic.

Earlier this week, Werkheiser had publicly apologized to Drake Bell, expressing regret for his actions and expressing horror at the revelations in the “Quiet on Set” documentary. Bell had bravely disclosed the abuse he endured at the hands of Peck during his teenage years, shedding light on a dark chapter in the entertainment industry.

So sorry to Drake. Gutted I hurt you. pic.twitter.com/WKzcOXL0p4

— Devon Werkheiser (@devonwerkharder) March 19, 2024

Peck’s reprehensible actions, as revealed in the documentary, shocked viewers, with Drake Bell recounting the abuse he suffered while working at Nickelodeon. Despite Peck’s conviction, he resurfaced in the industry, highlighting systemic failures in protecting young actors.

The trio’s apology underscores the importance of recognizing and rectifying mistakes, particularly when discussing sensitive and deeply personal topics like trauma and abuse. Their commitment to accountability and empathy serves as a reminder of the need for compassion and understanding in addressing such issues.

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