The recent release of “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” has stirred up conversations surrounding the alleged abuse of crew members on Nickelodeon sets during the ’90s and early ’00s. For Kenan Thompson, a veteran of the network’s iconic shows like “All That” and “Kenan & Kel,” these revelations have prompted a mix of emotions as he grapples with the new perspective offered by the documentary.
During an interview on “Tamron Hall,” Thompson shared his thoughts on the documentary series, highlighting the complexity of his feelings towards the network where he began his career as a child star. While acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and expressing empathy for those affected, Thompson emphasized that he cannot speak firsthand about incidents he did not witness.
Thompson’s journey in the entertainment industry started at Nickelodeon, where he gained prominence as an original cast member of “All That” and starred in the sitcom “Kenan & Kel” alongside his peer Kel Mitchell. Reflecting on his time at the network, Thompson admitted that he was not fully aware of the alleged abuse detailed in “Quiet on Set,” as many of the incidents occurred after he had left Nickelodeon.
The documentary series features allegations against Dan Schneider, a producer and creator of several Nickelodeon sitcoms, including “All That” and “Good Burger.” While Thompson acknowledged Schneider’s involvement in the shows, he clarified that Schneider was not heavily involved in “Kenan & Kel,” the series he co-starred in with Mitchell.
Despite his personal detachment from the alleged incidents, Thompson expressed solidarity with those who have come forward with their stories of abuse. He commended the documentary for shedding light on important issues and advocating for accountability within the industry, but admitted that watching it was a challenging experience given his fond memories of Nickelodeon and his co-stars.
In response to Hall’s mention of Nickelodeon’s ongoing investigations into the allegations, Thompson urged for thorough scrutiny and emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe environment for children in the entertainment industry.
“Quiet on Set” has sparked broader conversations about the treatment of child actors and the responsibility of networks to prioritize their well-being. As the documentary continues to uncover stories from the past, it serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the ongoing need for safeguards to protect young talent in the entertainment world.
