Trigger warning : This article discusses sexual abuse.
Kenan Thompson opens up about new documentary Quiet On Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV , which explores several Nickelodeon shows of alleged misconduct behind the scenes, with testimony from former child stars such as Drake Bell.
Former Nickelodeon star Thompson spoke about the incident on the Tamron Hall Show . "It's hard for me because I can't really talk about something I've never seen," he said, noting that most of the accusations occurred after his tenure at the network.
Thompson starred in the Nickelodeon sketch comedy series All That (1994-1999) and the sitcom Kenan & Kel (1996-2000), opposite Kel Mitchell.
He explained that he had limited interactions with TV producer Dan Schneider, who faces accusations of sexism, harassment and verbal abuse. "These things basically happened after I left, and Dan didn't really like Kenan and Kyle like that," he said. "He got a 'creator' credit, but that was a different showrunner, so our worlds didn't overlap too much."
Thompson clarified that he "didn't really understand" the allegations highlighted in "A Quiet Set ," saying he "sympathizes with all the victims," adding, "I think the doctors are out and taking action, which is A good thing.” Something that needs to be shown — a story that needs to be told for accountability. "
Schneider responded to the documentary in a YouTube video on March 19, apologizing for his past "embarrassing" behavior. "I do owe some people a very strong apology," he said. "It would be wrong for me to put anyone in that position. It's the wrong thing to do. I would never do that today."
He's rooting for Amanda Bynes
Thompson also discussed his relationship with "All That" co-star Amanda Bynes, telling Tamron Hall that he "supports her from a distance." He continued, "Unfortunately, I haven't spoken to Amanda because she's really, really young. Like when she did her first movie. I think the football movie [2006's She's The Man ] is That was the last time I really saw her."
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit hotline.rainn.org.
