Matthew Underwood Inspires Change Through Personal Story of Overcoming Adversity

Zoey 101s Matthew Underwood Encourages Others to Take a Journey of Growth

Matthew Underwood Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images for Nickelodeon

Matthew Underwood believes that people have the ability to change for the better with effort.

He acknowledges his past mistakes and admits to making errors every day, understanding that imperfection is a natural part of being human. Despite holding opinions and beliefs that may not always stand the test of time, Matthew values the opportunity to learn and grow. He embraces the beauty of human nature, recognizing that he can evolve by altering his viewpoints and beliefs to become a more enlightened individual.

Underwood, who recently shared his experience of being sexually assaulted by an unnamed agent, responded to a Reddit user who expressed doubt about Nickelodeon creator Dan Schneider's apology for his alleged toxic behavior, as highlighted in Quiet on Set.

The former actor, who collaborated with Schneider on Zoey 101 from 2005 to 2008, acknowledged that he wouldn't want to be judged solely based on his past behavior. Although Underwood didn't specify his past mistakes, he admitted to personal growth and emphasized that he is not the same person he was in the past. While he is open to reconciliation, Underwood is cautious about moving on too quickly from past grievances.

He shared that he doesn't forgive easily, as he believes it's important for people to acknowledge their mistakes and strive to improve. He prefers to give others the chance to show they can change for the better, rather than making quick judgments based on his emotions.

Underwood emphasized the significance of offering second chances, as he believes that without the opportunity to redeem themselves, individuals may continue down a negative path. He expressed optimism that extending forgiveness and a helping hand can guide those who have caused harm towards a path of growth and positivity.

"It's important to closely monitor someone's progress when giving them a chance to improve, and not settle for half-hearted efforts," he wrote. "Life doesn't give out free passes, but that doesn't mean we have to hold onto hatred forever."

Underwood recognized that his approach may not be suitable for everyone, and he is okay with that. He emphasized the importance of open discussions, noting that they are beneficial for the growth of society as a whole.

He expressed his desire to live in a world where people can respectfully discuss their disagreements. According to him, becoming a better person requires more than just a simple apology.

Recently, Underwood bravely shared his experience of sexual assault, which led him to step away from acting after his time on Nick's Zoey 101. In 2023, he returned to play his character, Logan, in the revival film Zoey 102. This decision to speak out about the abuse followed the release of the docuseries Quiet on Set on Investigation Discovery.

Many criticized Underwood for not speaking out about his experience on Nickelodeon in the documentary. The series featured former Nickelodeon stars and staff who talked about the toxic work environment and alleged abuse under the leadership of Schneider, known for creating Zoey 101, iCarly, and more.

Underwood addressed the criticism on Instagram, mentioning that he believes many in the industry are facing similar challenges. He expressed that just because someone doesn't publicly denounce wrongdoings, it doesn't mean they don't have valid reasons for staying silent.

Underwood initially mentioned that he had a positive experience working with Schneider and Nickelodeon. He expressed hope that Schneider's apology would lead to a better working environment for everyone.

However, Underwood received criticism for his comments and made it clear that he was not trying to defend Schneider.

"I understand that anything I say can be misinterpreted, but I feel the need to clarify after seeing this thread," he replied to a Reddit post on March 30th. "To simplify, let me give an example: I hope that the men who wronged me genuinely desire to improve themselves. If they show genuine effort to become better individuals, I believe in a world that supports and encourages their positive transformation."

Editor's P/S:

Matthew Underwood's perspective on forgiveness and reconciliation invites thoughtful reflection. His belief that individuals possess the capacity for change and deserve opportunities for redemption aligns with a compassionate and restorative approach. While acknowledging the pain and consequences of past actions, he emphasizes the importance of offering second chances, encouraging growth, and fostering a society where respectful dialogue prevails. Underwood's personal journey, from being a victim of sexual assault to embracing a path of healing and empowerment, underscores the resilience of the human spirit. His willingness to share his experiences and advocate for a more just and equitable world serves as an inspiration for others navigating similar challenges.

Underwood's nuanced views on Dan Schneider's apology highlight the complexities of addressing systemic issues within the entertainment industry. While expressing hope that Schneider's apology could lead to positive changes, Underwood remains critical of the alleged toxic behavior that occurred during Schneider's tenure at Nickelodeon. The fact that Underwood initially had positive experiences with Schneider but later came forward with allegations of inappropriate conduct underscores the insidious nature of such behavior, where perpetrators often maintain a veneer of professionalism while engaging in harmful actions. Underwood's insistence on accountability and his recognition that forgiveness is earned through sustained efforts to improve demonstrate a balanced approach that balances compassion with the need for justice and systemic reform.