Josh Peck Assisted Drake Bell in Dealing with On-Set Sexual Abuse Revelation

Following the public disclosure made by Drake Bell about the sexual abuse he faced at 15, his former co-star from "Drake & Josh", Josh Peck, was criticized on social media for not openly addressing the matter. Yet, Peck, aged 37, has actively reached out to Bell, the 37-year-old "I Found a Way" performer, as disclosed in a recent TikTok video uploaded on March 20.

The video started with Bell expressing his intention to dispel some conclusions made from Peck's social media posts. He stated that in these emotionally challenging times, not everything is brought to light. Bell confirmed that Peck had contacted him and had been very compassionate.

In the video, Bell explained, " he reached out to have a discussion with me and help me sail through this ordeal". He praised Peck for his supportive role, before urging fans to be sympathetic and less judgmental about him.

The video was uploaded after Peck found himself the target of numerous comments about Bell’s abuse, which he had not openly discussed. The abuse refers to the profound episode faced by Bell from Brian Peck (not related to Josh Peck), a former dialogue coach at Nickelodeon. The episode was narrated in detail in the second episode of ID’s "Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV".

Bell shared his traumatic experience, where Brian violated him while being asleep. In 2004, Brian admitted to oral copulation with a minor under 16 and performing a lewd act on a 14 or 15-year-old. He was sentenced to 16 months in prison and registered as a sexual offender thereafter. Bell’s involvement in the case remained unknown until the release of "Quiet on Set".

In response, Nickelodeon issued a statement to Hollywood Life saying they were distressed by Bell’s ordeal and admired his bravery in coming forward. In another official statement, the network addressed other allegations made against separate crew members by ex-staff, stating all accusations are treated seriously as part of their commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and the welfare of all children.

Bell and Peck’s friendship had some disagreements over the years. In 2022, Peck published his book, "Happy People Are Annoying", where he mentioned he hadn’t been in touch with Bell due to the latter’s legal troubles. Janet, Bell’s currently disgruntled wife, swiftly called Peck a "liar" over social media.