Kenan Thompson recently addressed his experience working with Dan Schneider at Nickelodeon during the 90s, following the release of the documentary Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV. On the Tamron Hall Show, he spoke about the challenges of discussing a subject he did not witness firsthand. Thompson emphasized that his involvement with Schneider was mainly limited to All That and not Kenan & Kel, where another showrunner was in charge.
Schneider’s Involvement and Thompson’s Response
While Thompson downplayed Schneider’s role in Kenan & Kel, it is important to note that Schneider had significant writing and producing credits on both shows. Despite this, Thompson expressed sympathy for his former colleagues who opened up about the toxic work environment they faced. He acknowledged the importance of shedding light on such stories for accountability but found it difficult to reconcile these revelations with his positive memories of the place and his co-stars.
In light of the documentary uncovering disturbing truths about the Nickelodeon set, Kenan Thompson urged for more investigation to ensure the safety of children in such environments. He emphasized the need for accountability and creating a safe space for young actors to thrive without facing exploitation.
Kenan Thompson’s reflections highlight the complexity of navigating between fond memories of a place and the harsh realities of the past. While he cherishes the friendships and experiences from his time at Nickelodeon, he recognizes the importance of acknowledging the hardships faced by others. Thompson’s call for further investigation serves as a reminder that accountability and safety should be prioritized, especially in settings geared towards children’s entertainment.