Los Angeles, California – In a stunning turn of events, directors Beth and Rich Correll have issued an apology to Drake Bell and his family after their past support for Brian Peck came to light in a recent documentary. The Corrells expressed deep regret for their actions, acknowledging that they were unaware of the true nature of Peck’s crimes at the time they defended him.
The couple, known for their work on popular children’s shows like “The Amanda Show” and “Drake & Josh,” emphasized their commitment to the safety of children on set. They expressed dismay at the revelations brought forward in the documentary, “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV,” and extended their sympathy to Bell for the pain and trauma he endured.
During the documentary, Bell disclosed for the first time that he was the minor who accused acting coach Brian Peck of sexual abuse. Peck’s subsequent arrest and conviction shed light on a network of support that included over 40 individuals, including the Corrells, who had written character letters for Peck.
Following his release from prison, Peck secured a job on Disney Channel’s “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody,” where the Corrells also worked on several episodes. They clarified that they had no involvement in Peck’s casting and were unaware of the details of his case. Once Disney Channel learned of Peck’s criminal history, he was promptly terminated.
In response to the documentary, Nickelodeon issued a statement commending Bell for coming forward and expressing support for him. The network also addressed allegations against producer Dan Schneider, emphasizing their commitment to investigating all formal complaints to ensure a safe and professional work environment.
Bell, however, criticized Nickelodeon for what he perceived as empty statements, questioning the sincerity of their support. Despite the network’s response, he expressed disappointment at the lack of concrete actions taken in response to the revelations brought to light in the documentary.
As the story continues to unfold, Peck has remained silent on the matter, declining to comment on the allegations raised in the documentary. The repercussions of his actions and the broader implications for the entertainment industry remain subjects of ongoing scrutiny and debate.