Warning: This article features explicit details of child abuse that could be triggering for some readers.
Victorious, iCarly, Drake & Josh, and The Amanda Show were iconic staples of our childhood TV screens during Nickelodeon’s heyday. But behind the scenes, a darker reality unfolded for some child actors, whose experiences on set are now coming to light. In a groundbreaking docuseries, Quiet on Set, disturbing allegations of sexism, racism, and inappropriate behaviour were brought to light by multiple former child stars. Producer Dan Schneider, known for his work on major Nickelodeon shows in the late ’90s and early 2000s, is at the centre of these allegations. And now, Ariana Grande has addressed the disturbing allegations of misconduct involving adults on Nickelodeon shows.
At 14 years old, Ariana landed the role of Cat Valentine on Victorious, which was overseen by the controversial Dan Schneider. With Quiet on Set shedding light on these issues, suggestive dialogue and unsettling online content featuring a teenage Ariana is under new scrutiny, both from documentary viewers and Ariana herself.
Quiet on Set brought many disturbing scenes that appeared to sexualise young Nickelodeon actors to light. This included scenes from Victorious and its spin-off Sam & Cat. In some of these clips Ariana, who was in her early teens at the time, is shown sticking her finger down her throat, licking her own toes, and suggestively squirting water on her face while in bed, among other things.
Ariana Grande Speaks Out
Although Ariana did not participate in Quiet on Set, the singer/actress has now spoken out on Penn Badgley’s podcast Podcrushed.
“Clearly, my perspective on [child acting] is evolving and evolving fast. I’m reflecting a lot on what those years were like,” she shared with Penn and his co-hosts. “If kids are going to be in this industry, the environment needs to be much safer.”
Reflecting on Victorious, Ariana acknowledged the pressure child actors were under to push boundaries for laughs. Revisiting those moments as an adult has led her to reconsider her approach and adult mentorship.
“Specifically on our show, there was this idea that pushing boundaries was our trademark — like, edgy humour and innuendos were encouraged and seen as our cool factor. Looking back now, some scenes make me think, ‘Seriously?'” she confessed. “Imagine if I had a daughter…”
Ariana also expressed disappointment about content that wasn’t approved for air later appearing on Nickelodeon’s online platforms, contributing to her disillusionment with the past.
“There Should Be Therapists Available”
The Wicked star also emphasised the need for better support systems for child actors entering the industry, citing heartbreaking stories she’s heard from those who’ve faced misconduct.
“There should be therapists available. Parents should have the freedom to be present wherever their kids are working,” Ariana insisted. “It shouldn’t just be on kids’ sets. Whether it’s acting or music, anyone entering this high-exposure world should have a contract mandating regular therapy sessions — twice a week, maybe three times.”
Her reflections underscore the need for safer, more supportive environments for young stars in entertainment.
Where to Watch Quiet on Set In Australia
The full Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV docuseries is available to stream on BINGE.
If this article brings up any issues for you or anyone you know, please contact Bravehearts— an organisation providing support to victims of child abuse. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, you can get advice from the Child Abuse Protection Hotline (1800 688 009) or the 24-Hour Child Abuse Report Line (131 478).
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