Nancy Sullivan Supports Drake Bell for Speaking Out Against Brian Peck's Abuse
Nancy Sullivan, known for her role as Drake Bell's onscreen mother, commends his courage in addressing the abuse he faced from Brian Peck on 'Drake and Josh'.
Drake Bells Onscreen Mother Is Devastated and Proud That He Spoke Out About Brian Pecks Abuse
Nancy Sullivan, Miranda Cosgrove, Josh Peck, Drake Bell and Jonathan Goldstein. SGranitz/WireImage/Getty Images
Nancy Sullivan, known for her role as Drake Bell's mother on Drake & Josh, has expressed her support for him after he opened up about being abused as a child.
In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram on Wednesday, March 20, the actress reflected on her time working with Drake. She revealed, "They weren't my real kids, but I'll always love them. It broke my heart to learn how much Drake was struggling internally. I was both devastated and proud to see the man he has become bravely sharing his truth on camera."
Sullivan, who is 54 years old, had a message for Bell, who is 37 years old. She expressed that past abuse should not define them and should not control their lives. Sullivan believes that letting go of this burden will bring freedom to Bell in many ways. She hopes that the happy memories Bell had on their shows will eventually overshadow the pain. Sullivan sends love to Bell, wishing him deep healing and a future filled with richness and beauty.
In Investigation Discovery's docuseries Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV, Bell revealed that he was the unnamed minor who accused dialogue coach Brian Peck of sexual abuse in 2003.
During the third episode of the doc, which aired on Monday, March 18, Bell referred to the assault as “extensive” and “brutal.”
Drake Bells Onscreen Mother Is Devastated and Proud That He Spoke Out About Brian Pecks Abuse
Jonathan Goldstein, Nancy Sullivan, Drake Bell, Josh Peck and Miranda Cosgrove, winners of Favorite Television Show for “Drake & Josh.” Albert L. Ortega/WireImage/Getty Images
"I can't really explain it on camera," he said. "Think of the worst things someone can do to someone else as a sexual assault, and that will answer your question. It wasn't just a one-time thing."
Peck, who is not related to Josh Peck, Bell, and Sullivan's former co-star, was arrested in August 2003 for alleged sexual abuse of a child. Brian, aged 63, admitted to committing a lewd act with a victim aged around 14 or 15, as well as oral copulation with a child under 16, leading to a 16-month prison sentence.
Prior to the documentary airing, Nickelodeon issued a statement to We. The statement expressed their dismay and sadness upon learning about the trauma endured by Drake Bell, who revealed himself as the plaintiff in the 2004 case. Nickelodeon also commended and supported his bravery in coming forward.
Bell confirmed on social media that his former co-star Josh, 37, reached out to him privately. In a TikTok video, Bell addressed comments on Josh's posts, explaining that dealing with the situation has been emotionally challenging and not everything is shared publicly. He reassured his followers that Josh has shown support by reaching out to him during this difficult time.
Bell expressed gratitude for Josh reaching out to him regarding the sensitive matter. He mentioned that Josh has been supportive and helpful in working through it together. Bell emphasized that Josh has been really great in his approach.
In closing, Bell urged his followers to be understanding and gentle towards Josh, who has not made any public statements regarding the docuseries.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
