Renowned for his extensive work in children’s television, former Nickelodeon producer and writer Dan Schneider has issued an apology for what he describes as “embarrassing” behavior during his time at the popular network. The apology follows the recent release of a documentary titled “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV,” which alleges years of abuse and inappropriate conduct on the sets of shows like iCarly and Drake and Josh.
Schneider, who parted ways with Nickelodeon in 2018 following an investigation into allegations of verbal abuse towards staff members, expressed remorse for his actions in a new apology video posted to YouTube. He acknowledged the difficulty of watching the documentary and the necessity of confronting his past behavior, stating, “I definitely owe some people a pretty strong apology.”
The documentary, which spans four parts, features accounts from former collaborators, including allegations of Schneider making inappropriate and sexual jokes on set. Former Amanda Show writer Jenny Kilgen shared accounts of Schneider allegedly requesting massages in exchange for professional favors, highlighting an environment where speaking up could risk job security.
Schneider directly addressed these allegations, acknowledging the inappropriate nature of his behavior, especially within the writers’ room. He expressed regret for any discomfort his actions may have caused to those present. He extended his apology not only to those directly affected but also to witnesses who may have felt uncomfortable but chose not to speak out.
One of the most disturbing revelations in the documentary involves actor Drake Bell. Bell disclosed being a victim of sexual abuse by former dialogue coach Brian Peck, with whom Schneider worked closely. Peck’s subsequent conviction and sentencing to prison deeply impacted Schneider’s career, leading him to reflect on what he describes as the “darkest part” of his professional journey.
Despite Schneider’s public apology, Nickelodeon has yet to respond to his statement. In a previous statement regarding the documentary, the network emphasized its commitment to investigating formal complaints and prioritizing the well-being of its employees and young viewers.
As the fallout of “Quiet on Set” spread throughout the industry, Schneider’s apology represents a meaningful step towards taking responsibility for his past actions. While acknowledging his mistakes, he expressed a desire for growth and emphasized the importance of treating others with respect and empathy — particularly in a professional setting geared towards children.
The documentary has sparked conversations not only about the culture of children’s television but also about the responsibilities of those in positions of power within the industry. Schneider’s apology serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for transparency, accountability, and a commitment to creating safe and inclusive work environments for all involved.
