Following the release of the documentary series “Quiet on Set,” another former Nickelodeon star has come forward to disclose their experience of sexual abuse.
Matthew Underwood, known for his role on the sitcom “Zoey 101,” took to social media to reveal that he decided to quit acting after enduring sexual harassment and assault by his agent at the age of 19. Though he didn’t name his former agent, Underwood emphasized that his current representatives are supportive individuals. He described how the betrayal of trust shattered his self-esteem and led him to report the incident, resulting in the agent’s termination. This traumatic experience prompted him to leave Los Angeles and abandon his acting career altogether.
Additionally, Underwood revealed that he was groomed and molested by his best friend’s stepfather when he was just 12 years old.
While he expressed gratitude for his positive experiences on the set of “Zoey 101,” Underwood acknowledged the pressure to address his story publicly amidst the fallout from “Quiet on Set.” He urged understanding for those who choose to remain silent about their experiences, emphasizing the emotional difficulty of discussing such traumatic events.
Despite allegations of misconduct against “Zoey 101” creator Dan Schneider in the documentary, Underwood clarified that he personally had no negative experiences with him. Nevertheless, he expressed empathy for anyone who has been exploited by trusted individuals.
Underwood’s statement follows similar sentiments expressed by other former Nickelodeon stars, including Melissa Joan Hart and Kenan Thompson, who voiced support for those who came forward in the documentary. Nickelodeon responded by affirming its commitment to investigating formal complaints and maintaining a safe workplace environment free of harassment.
Overall, Underwood’s disclosure adds to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the treatment of young actors in the entertainment industry and underscores the importance of fostering a culture of support and accountability.
