Investigation Discovery’s Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV, a four-part documentary series, dives deep into Nickelodeon’s producer Dan Schneider and the alleged horrific experiences of child stars and employees under his supervision.
The show featured multiple interviews of former cast members, writers, and crew, who accused the TV mogul of abusive behavior. Some of the allegations thrown upon him include “abuse, s*xism, racism, and inappropriate dynamics with its underage stars and crew.”
Former Nickelodeon Editor Revealed Work Experience With Dan Schneider
In the documentary series produced by Investigation Discovery, former Nickelodeon editor Karyn Finley Thompson revealed her grueling experience working with Dan Schneider. Her portfolio included All That, The Amanda Show, and Drake & Josh.
“When I worked with Dan, I felt like the bar was always being risen, and I had to reach that bar. You had to be as good, or better, or put more hours in, or do longer things than Dan did. And we all did it, or you get fired.”
She compared the editing room to a “starship enterprise,” where Schneider would sit at the back row and make degrading criticisms. Thompson recalled working from as early as 8 am to midnight, skipping meals or even bathroom breaks as the producer would often tell her to hold it or wait a minute. This took a toll on the employee’s body.
“One day, I keeled over, and I ended up having to go to the hospital, and as I’m leaving, I could hear someone say, ‘How is this show going to get finished?’ and I just remember saying, ‘I’ll be right back!’ ”
Once she had recovered, the job she left was no longer hers as Schneider found an easy replacement for her. She was very insulted as the new recruit was a total amateur. This prompted Thompson to pack up her things and exit the doors of Nickelodeon for good.
“And then he promised me a job and didn’t give it to me. Not only was this job Dan promised me given to someone else, it was a younger man who had no experience. I was livid. I got up out of my chair, and I never came back. I had enough promises from Dan that didn’t come true.”
Nickelodeon severed ties with Schneider in March 2018 after allegations of abusive behavior towards staff members on set, which the producer has firmly denied.
Dan Schneider Breaks Silence On The Allegations Of Abusive Work Behavior
A spokesperson for the controversial producer released a statement via Today about the allegations of demanding work practices and schedules.
“Dan [Schneider] expected and asked a lot from his teams. They worked long hours and consistently made successful shows. In the challenges of production, Dan [Schneider] could get frustrated at times, and he understands why some employees found that intimidating and stressful.”
The representative claimed that many of Schneider’s former colleagues enjoyed working with him and, for some who had not-so-positive experiences under his supervision, the producer offers his sincere apology.
