Surviving The Toxic Culture of Kids’ TV, with Mayim Bialik, Jenna von Oy & Christy Carlson Romano

EXCLUSIVE REACTIONS: Mayim, Jenna von Oy, and Christy Carlson Romano dive deep into the explosive QUIET ON SET documentary, from the heartbreaking abuse exposed by some of their peers, to their own firsthand accounts of the pressures they faced as child actors.
Mayim, Christy, and Jenna reflect on how the model for kids’ tv made child actors particularly vulnerable, the dangers of children working in the high pressure entertainment industry, the trauma-bonding nature watching the doc has had for their peer community, whether the system can truly be reformed, and ways to effectively pivot the conversation from sensationalistic gossip to promoting real change in the industry.
Christy reveals why she has currently chosen NOT to watch the documentary, breaks down her reservations about the exploitative nature of "trauma tourists," and explains more about the important advocacy work organizations like the Looking Ahead program (@alifeinthearts) are doing to connect child actors and their families with essential resources.
THEY ALSO DISCUSS:
- The dangers of dangling fame in front of child actors
- The role parents have to play, even if a studio tries to remove them
- The importance of teaching children to use their voices
- The crucial need for female representation and trauma-informed care in the entertainment industry
This episode is a must-listen, from revealing the dark side of how the entertainment millions love was actually made, to the exploration of what we can all do to ensure the safety of children everywhere.
---
CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Intro
4:13 - Mayim and Jonathan's documentary reaction
8:26 - Introducing Jenna von Oÿ and Christy Carlson Romano
21:48 - Christy's Reasons for Not Watching the Doc
24:30 - Child Actors: Expectations and Pressures
26:50 - Optimism for Industry Reform
30:30 - Strategies for Positive Change in Entertainment
33:30 - Discussing "Trauma Porn" in Media
46:14 - Effects of Secondary Trauma
48:50 - Child Actors Finding Their Voice
53:10 - Positive Aspects of Child Acting
56:40 - On-Set Discomfort
58:20 - Child Actors in Kissing Scenes
1:05:57 - Female Representation on Set
1:13:35 - Disney vs. Nickelodeon Experiences
1:21:50 - Social Media Impact
1:32:57 - Christy’s Advocacy Work with the Looking Ahead program
1:34:50 - Outro
---
Learn more about the Looking Ahead program: give.actorsfund.org/site/Calen...
Learn more about the Coogan Law: www.sagaftra.org/membership-b...
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Find Mayim Bialik:
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Find Jenna von Oy:
Twitter: / jennavonoy
Instagram: / jennavonoy
Find Christy Carlson Romano:
Twitter: / christyromano
Instagram: / thechristycarlsonromano
Theme Song Written, Produced, and Performed by Ed Robertson. Mixed by Kenny Luong.
#MayimBialik​​​ #BialikBreakdown #ChildActor #Quietonset #Blossom #EvenStevens #Disney #Nickelodeon

[@oliviabb73849]

PLEASE talk about parent exploiting kids on KZbin for profit. The next “child stars”. ❤

[@se73a]

yes!

[@celinex6712]

Yessss!!!!!

[@michaelleary9233]

Yes, I loved the Franke family and looked what happened to them.

[@smb879]

💯 YES! I can't stand the content farm channels too.

[@stacyscooby8488]

I agree 100

[@dawn6232]

This has been happening since Shirley Temple and Judy Garland.

[@psymompa]

Sad but true.

[@easymodenerd8551]

It was even a carry over from other forms of entertainment such as Vaudeville. 😢

[@KK-yc2cg]

Lucille Ricksen, silent movie star in the early 1920's. Playing adult roles at age 11. Dead by 14.

[@dawn6232]

@@KK-yc2cg that’s awful and yet here we are in 2024 shocked by all this. Hidden abuse in plain sight. Enabled by money hungry adults. Child trafficking at its height! We should be ashamed of ourselves!

[@peter_bazinet]

@@KK-yc2cg So true. It was rumored that it wasn't actually tuberculosis that killed her, but a botched abortion. She had become very close to Sydney Chaplin, (Charlie's brother) who was 25 years older than her.

[@kristypetermann458]

Hi Mayim - I have wanted to share this for a while but seems most appropriate now. I worked at the Cheesecake Factory in BH in the late 80's/early 90's and waited on many celebrities. You and the Lawrence boys were some of my favorite to wait on because you were so normal - and, unfortunately, that stuck out in a world of kids who spoke like they were auditioning when ordering their angel hair pasta. Those kids made me sad - it just seemed so wrong, like they weren't allowed to be kids. I remember thinking your parents were doing something right - you guys were polite, not calling attention to yourselves and were just normal kids. One time you and your brother were picking at each other and you reminded me of me and my brother (I think I even said it to you guys). Now after learning what could happen on set I realize how lucky you were to have the healthy personal and professional support you did. Anyway, you were (and are) a standout. I love your podcast and your brain! LOL Best of everything to you - Kristy (aka Petey)

[@MayimBialik]

🫶🫶🫶

[@DragonflyB-tn7pq]

Abt 43:50 Her mother encouraging her to speak when uncomfortable was AMAZING! As a child I always thought it creepy when parents would make their children hug people. My mother never made me do that. As an adult, I realize how important that was for me. It gave me control over my body. It allowed me to have a voice. “It’s no big deal. They’re family” except what children learn is their body is not necessarily theirs. I raised my children the same way. With my daughter, her gma was trying to force a hug. I stood by her and said NO. My dad-in-law (her hubby) had to step in to tell her to stop. I’m her mother. She doesn’t want to hug Person and all that’s ok. She tried to continue to argue with him til he said her name and bit louder and very firm so she stopped. I made sure my kids could come to me if ANYONE did ANYTHING they didn’t like. They were kids. Of course, some of it was gma made me eat veggies (lol) but I’d rather have that then lack of communication, lack of honesty. There’s no such thing as too much positive communication with my kids

[@panpluto13]

​@@MayimBialikI typed "Jenna side joe" on two platforms and youtube brought me here. well, the algorithm sure knows what a gh0ul you are.

[@karlc2869]

@@MayimBialik Hey Mayim, do ya empathize with some former child/teen stars (living and deceased) including Britney Spears, LiLo (Lindsay Lohan), Michael Jackson, George Michael, Amanda Bynes, the Olsen twins, Robert Downey Jr., Corey Haim, Corey Feldman, Brad Renfro, Edward Furlong, David Cassidy, Leif Garrett, Naya Rivera, Jake Lloyd, Bobby Brown, Henry Thomas, Peter Robbins, Jonathan Brandis, Nicholas Brendon, Drew Barrymore, Dustin Diamond, Mitchel Musso, Todd Bridges, Demi Lovato, Miley Cyrus, Gary Coleman, Dana Plato, El DeBarge, Marcus T. Paulk, Dee Jay Daniels, Judy Garland, Tevin Campbell, Daveigh Chase, Shaun Weiss and Jodie Sweetin because of what they went through? And also, do ya think the media should say sorry to them for mocking their mishaps back then?

[@rhysently]

What a wonderful comment! Thank you so much for sharing this lovely memory. 😍

[@victoriaemerson-ds8du]

Mayim’s mom is a hero. ❤ In a culture where women are often encouraged to be quiet, polished, and sweet, we often forget the #1 role of moms should be a fierce protector who unapologetically advocates for their child. We need more moms who are willing to step on toes to protect their kids.

[@danastonerock]

Bev is a Badass!

[@lenoraclemm1892]

Not me finding out after years of subbing that she is Blossom LOLOL

[@marisamartinezolivera]

After watching this episode, what a great job Mayim's parents, especially Beverly, did in protecting her from predators out there and keeping her healthy and centered. Bravo for Beverly and Barry! 👏🏻👏🏻

[@karlc2869]

IKR. It's nice to see Blossom, Six and Ren Stevens talk about child stars.

[@rebornfurnituredesigns2492]

Alexa Nickolas would be a wonderful person to interview about this. She’s been advocating and protesting on this very thing for years. She’s a former child actor who was in the documentary and part of making the documentary happen. BUT she was also very unhappy by how it played out, how it treated the survivors while filming and after filming.

[@meghangriesemer1129]

And she actually watched the documentary

[@rebornfurnituredesigns2492]

I didn’t comment this to shame anyone. Mayim has interviewed Alyson and Jennette and Christy, and Alexa fits right into that niche so I thought she’d be a great guest to have on. Also I feel like we have to remember that we all have bills to pay and mouths to feed, and it’s hard to dedicate your life to a cause when you’re not also earning a living. Like Alexa has said, these former child stars are not rich, and protesting and advocating and trying to bring about change takes a lot of time and energy and money. So if they can do that while also earning a livelihood in the process, I think that’s great so long as they’re not doing harm. I’m not saying I agree with everything Christy has done ( I also haven’t agreed with everything Alexa has done), but we’re all human and we all make mistakes. Please don’t use my suggestion to bash anyone.

[@W_Gebby]

There’s no denying that Christy has a plethora of information and insight on the industry because she grew up in it starting from a very young age. It’s just slightly frustrating seeing her in this interview rather than someone like Alexa, especially considering what CCR did to Alexa.

[@christinakoch2738]

Alexa would be a great person for them to interview one day!

[@scarlettredding]

I also would love to see her get more recognition...slightly frustrated seeing CCR considering some things she's said and done recently with zero accountability.

[@Lost4ever74.]

The children currently experiencing trauma are the children of family vloggers and child influencers. There are no regulations in the Social Media world. Think about the damage done to children in the entertainment industry, which does have regulations....and multiply it tenfold.

[@Altmetalpunk]

This... 100% this

[@sheritamac87]

Corey Feldman…one of the very first child actors that spoke the loudest about it, quite a while ago. I’m glad the bad people in the industry are being called out and held accountable now, finally!

[@rosealee9367]

Yes, my heart aches for him when I hear about his life story, which continues to affect him to this day. I wonder how different his life would have been had he not had those terrible awful experiences as a child. The same for all children who had similar experiences as him.

[@holdyourfire74]

Mayim's interview with him is one of my favorite episodes.

[@jjsmakeupobsession323]

Plus Corey Haim his best friend died from a drug overdose, he never recovered from what was done to him as a child on set.

[@JenSell1626]

Maybe if STILL be supporting him but that reality show and also there wouldn’t be a place in my town that wasn’t getting SO MANY boom threats WEEKLY that my mayor had to put out a letter about it because it’s constantly shutting down Bridge street 🫤😖 Contain that situation

[@alyssabrown-carleton6173]

​@@jjsmakeupobsession323corey haim died of pneumonia. He did have drug issues but that was not the cause of death

[@kristinmartin2899]

The problem is what happens when someone does push back and say no. They get threatened and forced to comply.

[@dawidscheffler7152]

@@bobsbergers4166 it's an ogre's choice; Do the thing or be blacklisted from working again - is not a choice.

[@acephaedramusic9588]

Thank you for this! As a European, I've been horrified since I've found out about this culture. Shows like dance mums and toddlers and tiaras, child peagants...how is this even legal? Look at the Harry Potter cast. I think the strict child labour laws in the UK are a big reason they're all fairly well adjusted. Protect these children! It's not just Nickelodeon!

[@erikbihari3625]

Guess if I want specifics, must watch the video?

[@acephaedramusic9588]

@@erikbihari3625 specifics about what exactly?

[@m_brokenleg]

Same here! As another European..it’s so difficult to understand..

[@ktisaqt5588]

Let me just say… the people who wrote those letters KNEW ENOUGH. Period. They knew Peck had sexual relations with a minor. That is enough. And honestly it doesn’t matter how much they knew, and as Christy stated, we don’t need all the gruesome details. They knew enough and still supported a rapist. Every single one of those people need to contact the victim privately and apologize and then make a public apology to the rest of us.

[@DrenchedInDrama]

Christy’s best friends

[@EllaFox]

Going down the rabbit hole after watching the documentary, I found out something about one of the people who wrote a support letter-- Alan Thicke-- that makes me wonder how much those letter writers new. Alan Thicke met a 16 year old Kristi Swanson on the lot. He was on the record as dating her when she was SEVENTEEN. He was in his forties. Dan Schneider was on his show. Other letters came from the parents on That 70's show. One member of that cast is now in jail for rape and the other was known to have relationships with young girls. There seems to be a large group of people who have very toxic behavior and they're all enabling each other

[@DragonflyB-tn7pq]

I’m surprised as an advocate that she said, “it could happen to anyone” because it’s NOT true. In these situations, predators intentionally pick out specific people; the people they feel they can hurt and get away with it. That’s why kids were being fired if they had involved parents.

[@whitneyc5295]

I appreciate the directness of this conversation. Everyone else is dancing around the terms taking away the very visceral feelings that this brings up.

[@ScottEOsSportsballCards]

There is only one UN country that has not signed the Convention on the Rights of the Child; The United States of America. Every other nation in the United Nations has been part of the convention since at least 2015 when Somalia signed.

[@kp2223]

Say it louder for people in the back

[@patierazo1215]

WOW I had no idea. Thank you for sharing.

[@24kgoldplatedvermeil]

Because the united states is based on exploitation of the working class

[@NoThankUBeQuiet]

It's not like me as a citizen can go sign it. If I could I would

[@ScottEOsSportsballCards]

@NoThankUBeQuiet I didn't suggest you could, but you can do something, can't you? You can vote. At a minimum we should talk about it until everyone just knows that. Get creative. It's what we're here for.

[@tikettle]

Fascinating. I grew up during that era and still have mixed feelings about kids’ programming. Thanks for sharing your stance.

[@MayimBialik]

Thanks very much for sharing, and for being here! 🧠🫶

[@marvinmallette6795]

I was born in 1985, I have mixed feelings about 1994's "The Secret World of Alex Mack" pilot episode, starring Larisa Oleynik, especially after the comments towards Nickelodeon in this video. It woke up something inside of me at the time, and left an impression. I have wondered what they were thinking, and the closest I can come up with is Phan Thi Kim Phuc, a childrens sci-fi series about PTSD?

[@Soibottleditup]

Trauma tourists…. Wow!!! Hitting me on so many levels… Will take a while to unpack (carefully and honestly) whew… this is definitely about TV and social media children that are a part of this entire thing!

[@Sarah-with-an-H]

The same people where really obsessed with true crime for a time as well.

[@Soibottleditup]

@@Sarah-with-an-H true! Not proud to admit I watch this as well… no excuse but being a trauma survivor, sometimes I watch because I feel like I learn how to better prepare and protect myself by learning about the tactics and ways the criminals choose or set up the crimes. My husband used to get on me but let it go when he understood why… that maybe a different reason to watch, but I’m also aware that watching them actually supports the shows that also create negative results for many people, one being that the more we see the less we empathize and that is not healthy… as i mentioned above, a lot to unpack and carefully, honestly make choices that are better for our society as a whole. These things won’t just go away and obviously my choice to stop watching won’t create a movement that would create a significant change. However, it is still important for each person that recognizes the overall effects of consuming things … it will be a positive and potentially significant change for me! Appreciate this podcast so much! I have soo much respect and admiration for Mayim Bialik …

[@basicallyno1722]

I have a lot of sexual, verbal and physical trauma from childhood - and I tend to gravitate toward dark materials like true crime or similar documentaries. Somehow I feel like I’ll be ahead of the game if I can figure out the psychology. I also find myself feeling contentment in anger, outrage and a desire for Justice for another victim - something I couldn’t give myself while the abuse was happening or years afterward.

[@Soibottleditup]

@@basicallyno1722 same with me… there is a psychological aspect to protecting and also the sense of justice when we can see other victims having a voice and some form of healing after their experiences!

[@Lost4ever74.]

​@@basicallyno1722Survivor here. It is a coping mechanism. Seeing justice served and other victims experiencing similar treatment is validating.

[@gabbygabslcsw]

Interview Alexa Nikolas!

[@jakestroll6518]

Alexa is an example of the trauma exploiters they talk about here. She’s literally turned this conversation into her income and because of that can be very irresponsible with the platform churning out content.

[@LO42191990]

​@@jakestroll6518I don't necessarily think it's about that for her though. I think she is altruistic in her passion for change and if you know her full story she lost everything to someone 17 years her senior who started grooming her at 16. So if she can both advocate for change and support herself in the process, I don't see anything wrong with that.

[@gabbygabslcsw]

She literally is a survivor she can absolutely weaponize her trauma to fund her protesting and organizing idk 🤷‍♀️

[@gr23452]

@@jakestroll6518 I have to agree. She’s kind of a bully, which is odd for someone who claims to be an advocate.

[@SammKeno]

I really liked that you are talking about this. Its an extremely important conversation to have. However I am very confused on why Christy Carlson Romano was pulled to be apart of this episode. I understand she was a child star and all but She is known for not supporting survivors and is really good at giving a platform to negative people. Alexa Nickolas was actually in the doc and has been protesting this madness for years. I would have loved to hear why Christy took down the episode that Alexa Nickolas did on her podcast where Alexa opened herself up and shared her truth.

[@heidikoski6956]

Came here to say this. Thanks. CCR in this episode almost made me click away…..

[@jenniferarted3652]

You and Jenna had a wonderful conversation but I don’t think Christy added anything valuable. She just kept saying, she’s not going to talk about this again.

[@jessicaseitelman5875]

The fact that you guys aren't dwelling in the negative and branching out into how to move forward is very helpful to my mental health, because since the docs release the algorithm has bombarded me with trauma p**n in association with it.Thank you for doing this in a different way.

[@Sarah-with-an-H]

Multiple things can be true at the same time.

[@NoThankUBeQuiet]

Moving forward is great BUT there is no undoing the damage that has been done

[@Sarah-with-an-H]

@@NoThankUBeQuiet dwelling on stuff doesn't change the past either

[@boomeradley8748]

Let's not take accountability away from Nickelodeon. Just because every network is guilty of its own crimes does not mean Nick is off the hook. This is a long overdue movement, please don't use your platform to move the conversation backwards or take away from survivor experiences. I'm honestly getting the vibe Nick paid you to say this.

[@wynnkidsnannylorivance4111]

While pursuing my graduate degree in therapy, one subject that I continually wrote about was how to keep our young artists safe on set and safe in the business in general. This topic is so important.

[@boomeradley8748]

Just remember that "not watching the doc" is what Nickelodeon wants people to do.

[@monicagrindstaff5489]

Christy did not even watch the doc??!! Why is she there? You don’t get to have an opinion when you didn’t bother to watch it.

[@alexsummers1]

Great Episode!! I just have to say I am slightly disappointed and annoyed that Christy decided to opt out of watching the documentary.Sure she is an advocate for children rights, but if you come on a podcast about the documentary how can you truly put your two cents in the conversation at hand?

[@jamiefrontiera1671]

When I watched the doc and heard Dan's response from it, I was reminded of Colleen Ballinger, and how she didn't get what she was doing wrong, and how dismissive she was being. Like when she said "I just made a fart joke." She didn't get it wasnt the joke, it was who was on stage with her for the joke. Or when she put popcorn down her pants and had a kid grab the popcorn. If she had an adult on stage that joke is fine, but she had a minor on stage participating for that joke. So, I think the conversation that the documentary brought up still needs further conversation behind the set or included with youtube.

[@lnorrigby]

When I watched this documentary what I was really looking for is, as a consumer of media, what can I do to support and advocate for better conditions for child actors. The only thing I remember about watching Nickelodeon at that time was disgust and confusion (I was a bit older than their target demographic), although I couldn't name why. This conversation including Christy Carlson gave me a place to look more into how I can help.

[@matiaspereira9382]

Today there's exactly 1 month until Young Sheldon airs its final episode. I can't wait to see you again as Amy, Mayim!

[@mwillis7791]

I would LOVE to see this conversation between you women and the kids that grew up in the 2000’s. Such a great episode!

[@tomboughan2718]

Paul Petersen, a child star of 1950s, has been talking to child stars since, helping them out as much as he could.

[@fenflora]

Thanks for covering this! Check out Eat Predators with Aleka Nikolas, a former child star who is in the doc

[@sevenandthelittlestmew]

What I gleaned from Christy on this show is that we need to be proactive rather than reactive following exposés like this. Learning what we did from the documentary should inspire us to find common-sense solutions to problems within the industry, rather than having a knee-jerk reaction to attack and criticize. I’ll be looking into the organization she represents, and will gladly support. I used to be a model booker for print, so I can’t speak to the film/television/commercial/industrial side, but we always encouraged parents to be involved and helped educate parents and the kids (they are far smarter than adults give them credit for) about the industry, and were always available if they had questions or concerns.

[@juliejems555]

As a woman who grew up and worked in a predominantly male industry, I was always pushed beyond what I believe was necessary or required of me. I was always "on stage" so to speak. With all that being said, I can't imagine having to endure this behavior as a child. My heart breaks. I'm glad that my child was never interested in television as a child. Thanks for sharing this issue.

[@sharonswink3234]

Kim Possible was one of my daughter's favorite shows at age 7. Glad to see she is fighting for kids! I can not stand that so many who entertained us, we're treated so terribly.

[@HippieWitchyAsh]

My opinion here.. keeping truth hidden to protect victims is sadly not the approach. Leaving identities of victims out is responsible, but keeping the truth of what the tv movie industry is doing to minors and adults must get aired out. Without exposing it, the supporters, aka fans, won't be able to make an advocated choice to continue supporting entertainment that is questionable. And without exposure and questions, standardized changes across the board will never happen. Please keep being transparent and speak truth, as your voice matters and helps others to feel safe to speak their truths too.

[@emmyg722]

Another brilliant breakdown! Thank you for covering this. I remember my child being worried about some of these child actors and knowing something was wrong but not completely understanding as I grew up with you and everything seemed normal. I just remember discouraging her from some shows and after watching Quiet on Set, I now know why. It's so very sad and breaks my heart.

[@MayimBialik]

Thanks very much for sharing and for being here! 🧠🫶

[@shaboom362]

Dan Schnider played a jerkoff on Head of the Class and you have to be one to portray one that well. Didn’t see the documentary but knowing that horrifying things happen to these poor innocent children I cannot imagine how parents would subject their children to such a life?

[@samsmulders7908]

Thank you so much for this conversation and thank you for sharing your perspectives on this! This was such a powerful episode! Much love to you Mayim💕!

[@MayimBialik]

🤯🥹

[@holdyourfire74]

Thanks for this. After watching Quiet On Set it was so heartbreaking and anger-inducing that I started watching other KZbin channels reporting on this and found myself in a rabbit hole. I began to realize that most of those channels were just rehashing the same info and just using the doc for their own benefit (clicks and engagement). So I had to stop for my own sanity. As always you guys took it in a more, I won't say positive, but interesting thought-provoking direction. Exploring the roots and dispelling some myths about the culture while being honest about it as well. Loved the episode!

[@ginofrancejr555]

Thank you ladies for this episode and you three perspectives and insights

[@juliebruce1114]

Thank you for addressing this. The 3 of you had a poignant conversation. I only watched 1 episode of this documentary because of something you stated…”It offered no hope.” You all offered great solutions for protecting our most vulnerable in society- children. Thank you.

[@lauraschmidt2532]

This was a great discussion because it brought so many perspectives from different sectors of the child acting world. I appreciate the honesty and compassion that everyone has shared and the call for advocacy instead of sensationalism and reducting the child victims to a sound bite. The children in this documentary were hired to do work and did not get the protection and the rights that any other actor has been afforded.

[@grlgld4grc]

Mayim thank you for putting this episode together. It was nice to hear everyone's perspective expressed in a healthy way. I was a teenager in the early 2000s and I was always more drawn towards watching whatever was on the Disney channel and ABC family more than Nickelodeon. I remember feeling an uncomfortable feeling of ick any time I was channel surfing and caught a glimpse of some of these Nickelodeon shows and I wonder if my subconscious was protecting me or if I was somehow discerning that something wasn't right within those shows.

[@orland0110]

Thank you so much for posting this really interesting episode with Jenna von Oy and Christy Carlson Romano! Much love to you Mayim! ❤

[@MayimBialik]

Thanks very much for sharing and for being here! 🧠🫶

[@Lakirk2023]

Carrie Fisher did a documentary on the downside of children in Hollywood.

[@lindsayrose7001]

Acting was a childhood dream. I had a severely traumatic childhood. I masked my own identity and slipped into roles SO easily. I was invited to a camp in La Jolla CA when I was 13 where they would mold "triple threat" kids, singing dancing and acting. All of my favorite things. I at this point was in the custody of my VERY old fashioned, VERY strict, VERY simple living grandparents who answered the invitation with a loud NO. I held a lot of animosity and resentment for most of my young life because of this. As an adult I am infinitely grateful for that NO. I would have made a ripe and easy target for Hollyweird to further screw up. 💔

[@dianaheilman5163]

I LOVE SEEING Jenna and Mayim together and talking about Blossom days. Such an important message from people who were there and lived it. Thank you for your perspective. You were so vulnerable about not being experienced and how you navigated that in the show. Sharing that vulnerability with your audience is a gift. So thank you, Jenna and Mayim, for sharing this. One thing that I remember about Blossom is that Blossom the character never disclosed whether or not she had sex with the Vinny character. Even to her best friend Six. She very articulately told her that that was private. And I thought that was very responsible and ahead of it's time. I wonder if Mayim had anything to do with that because it's very "on brand" for how Mayim would address something like that. There were no "sex scenes" or "dishing" between Six and Blossom about Blossom's sexual experiences. And this really enabled teen girls to feel empowered to keep that part of their life private. And it's that "keeping it private" that likely inadvertently protected them and their reputations during an age that could have scarred them if those kinds of personal things go out into their friendship circles, the schools, and their communities or families. Blossom made a point to mention contraceptions (I believe her mother and Blossom had an off camera discussion of it). Which I also think is important. The show was able to promote safety in sexuality without exploiting the privacy of the character. I wish more shows could do that. It was rare in the 90's and it's almost unheard of now.

[@MaryAnn-pp3cq]

I watched the doc "Quiet on the set" was in complete shock and cried over all of it. Then I found your channel and your podcast on my phone and listened to it and was really glad I did. When you talked about a parents who would tell the child they were "fine" that set a trigger for me. I have a cousin who was a sears, jc penny and a couple of other catalogs back in the day, She was a model and if she was tired, or just having an off day, My Aunt was horrible to her about it. If you do another segment like this one, please talk about parents on set the good the bad and the ugly. My Aunt has passed on, but it screwed up my cousin and her self confidence for decades, now that i think about it, She messed with mine too. love you channel and will be playing catch for weeks to come.

[@stacyscooby8488]

amazing video please talk about more subjects that are tough I am so glad that we got your take on this tough subject.

[@1cindyr]

Christy Carlson wants to bury her head in the sand. She didn't need to be in this conversation. I'm sure someone who actually watched the doc and is also an advocate as well would have been better.

[@123451248ify]

She knows the people involved. That's why she didn't want to watch it! The documentary is not the gospel!😂😂😂 How dare someone think for herself and doesn't want to jump on the documentary bandwagon.

[@Hummingbird25]

@@123451248ify Christy also didn’t offer any hope or solutions so she literally wasn’t adding anything to the discussion

[@elon9181]

WOW. what a horrible thing to say. To totally dismiss someone b/c you disagree?? Crazy. You're not an ADVOCATE just because you watch something. What makes you an advocate is when you TAKE ACTION. She's an advocate...she doesn't have to watch the doc to know, this is her backyard, She lived it!

[@Hummingbird25]

@@elon9181 she never said she disagreed she said Christy didn’t add anything to the conversation bc the episode was about the documentary. If you’re being invited to discuss the documentary you should come prepared or don’t come on. Christy also didn’t have hope for a solution and personally I think that’s not the kind of advocacy and leadership we need to bring change. From your reaction you seem like you can’t handle someone who doesn’t agree with you. It’s ok to disagree but you don’t have to attack her and say she is horrible for her opinion about Christy’s relevance. I personally didn’t find it helpful. You did. Both are ok.

[@123451248ify]

@@Hummingbird25 She did. Such as making sure staff are fully aware that children on set like they do for animals or guns. Also she said that children should be part of the union so they are protected like adult actors.

[@samiam74]

I completely relate to having a hard time discussing such a heavy issue without any results. THIS is where we start. We make it not taboo to talk about bad things so that we can learn and grow as humans. Thank you Mayim for creating this safe space for people to share, learn and grow.

[@breakfast_with_spliffany]

Thank you to Mayim and Jenna for sharing their experiences and thoughts surrounding such a serious topic that needs to be discussed more; it allows for personal healing and also extends that space for others to do the same. Still wondering why they needed the third.

[@angelstarrrrr]

Hello. I wanted to reach out and say I wanted to watch this. However, I couldn't because you chose to have CCR to advocate for the children. She protected Cory Feldman. She protected Hugh Hefner. She's not a person qualified to speak on subjects like this. Thank you for taking this in.

[@spookyyjazz]

Would love to see you interview Alexa Nikolas, these are powerful important conversations and I love your perspective! Unfortunately Christy has been very unkind to other survivors :/

[@Alifirecat]

Yeah I'm really disappointed in Christy. Like, in order to fix a problem, light has to be shed on the fact that there is a problem. And that's what The documentary did. It brought everything out into the light. And that's why they had to get so many survivors together to do this. Because over the years it's just been one or two here and there. But now all these voices coming together to speak about this problem is showing that it's not just a once in awhile issue, it is a culture. These aren't "trauma tourists" as she disgustingly calls them. ID...as in INVESTIGATION DISCOVERIES. That is what their moniker stands for. Isn't it? Investigative. They weren't tourists. They were investigative journalists. It's better than some people who just sat on the sidelines and didn't say anything for years CCR!

[@aliceanneacts6164]

Great discussion! I appreciate both the structure and the allowing of organic responses also. And great points about trauma awareness, secondary trauma, and trauma exploitation/p*8N…

[@christinesmith3261]

Thank you for this. I'm not in the industry and of course I had no clue and never thought about any of this. But in retrospect now I understand why their were so many child actors who were dealing with major issues as they grew up and became adults. But the whole thing is so sad and horrifying. I haven't seen the documentary. However knowing these things were happening just absolutely breaks my heart! Thank you for all doing this in such a kind and courteous way!

[@erinfink5567]

I appreciated Mayim highlighting the bigger picture and how it wasn't just a Nick problem but the culture at large.

[@MayimBialik]

🤯🥹

[@boomeradley8748]

That makes it sound like she is placing less accountability on Nick. That's not the energy the movement needs right now. I would not be surprised if Nick paid her to say this.

[@phatpharm06]

@@boomeradley8748? She’s placing the blame on all the big wigs. It happened at Disney. Lance Bass did a whole documentary about the creep that took advantage of the minors he was managing. Even in Quite on the Set, they discussed how the industry made sure the pedophilia laws entered a caveat for being allowed to work with children as long as a guardian was on set. Stage parents don’t usually protect their children. Brittney Spears and Lindsay Lohan are both examples of parents who were more worried about their time in the light than to protect their child.

[@lisahaferkamp2705]

Thank you for talking about this. I watched this documentary and it made me sick to my stomach. When I was a child, all I ever wanted to do was be an “actress”. It was my absolute dream! Looking back, I have to now say that I thank God for unanswered prayers. I truly believe that He saved me from a very damaging childhood because as a child, I was very naive and soft spoken and could never stand up for myself. I wholeheartedly believe that this could’ve and more than likely would have been ME in these situations. My heart goes out to those whose lives have been affected and torn apart because of these people.

[@meghangriesemer1129]

They keep saying during that time, it was a different time. But celebrities who supported Brian Peck like Ryder Strong and James Marsden are still working. So until things change more and these people face consequences, it's not really a different time....A lot of people signed NDAs and can't speak out

[@AH-yv7kj]

So extremely well spoken and eloquent. I admire you beyond belief!

[@lasundela420]

This was a very professional and safe conversation. Very well put together.

[@sonyabarbee4446]

I enjoyed the conversation with Mayim and Jenna. As expected, it was an interesting take on the program without piling on to the salaciousness. I didn’t care that Christy didn’t watch the program (I didn’t either) but she came off (in my opinion) as a Disney apologist, like a cult member. She named very specific instances that were troubling and then made excuses for them. Her comments on the “model” that Disney was using with her as the “smart brunette” is also part of the cultural problems that affected children watching and probably acting in the programs as well. Perpetrating stereotypes like hot blond, the “smart” brunette (which equated to less attractive), the “smart” Asian (equated the nerd), and the “black friend” (diversity hire) are also not without trauma.

[@annescholten9313]

Powerful episode.❤

[@user-zw1co5pz9q]

With all due respect I thought that Christy Carlson Romano was a horrible guest because she refused to watch the documentary which this episode was based on and comment about it. Rather than accepting the facts of what was exposed and moving on (as she advocates) this documentary should spark more conversation as well I as investigations into Nickelodeon and Dan Schneider who both prioritized money and their twisted fantasies over the safety and well-being of the child actors on these shows. Mayim, I am glad both you and Jenna had positive work environments but the horrors Quiet on Set exposes aren’t simply uncomfortable working conditions or topic but a culture of sexual inequality, sexual exploitation, racism and fear. Thank you for your input but I believe more needs to be exposed and investigated simple as away of giving justice to those children who suffered at the expenses of these adults who took advantage of them.

[@penelopefp]

"trauma tourists" and "trauma porn" oooh, those are the perfect terms for explaining the topic. This was such a respectful conversation! Thank you for not only speaking to this topic, but for demonstrating how to have a mature, respectful conversation without using cheap conversation "bait". Excellent job!!!!! Well done!!!

[@sweingold5686]

The fact that no adult talked to you about kissing in the scene before the scene was shot says a lot about was wrong, even on a "good" set. I have heard stories like this from other young actresses and actors.

[@Lakirk2023]

The boy who played petter pan originally was also abused. He passed away alone in a abandoned building at a young age after being discarded by Disney because of an acne outbreak. This goes so deep.

[@dovesmum8521]

This is very important that the 3 of you, as insiders are talking about this. I love Alysons channel/education re: what we can do as well. We have come along ways but still have a long way to go. Bravo for having this conversation.

[@MayimBialik]

Thanks very much for sharing and for being here! 🧠🫶

[@hmbogi]

I appreciate how you all discussed this topic with such dignity. I appreciate not rehashing the salacious details.

[@Altmetalpunk]

It's good to see a perspective from a child actor who was more removed from schnider. I know other producers and people have also talked about similar issues so it's not just schnider but im glad to see her not just being like "i didnt experience this so i can detach," and supports the people who came forward.

[@natalieholmes5313]

There was a commercial within the past 20 years that I looked at and wondered why it was conceived let alone released. It was Pillsbury Toaster Strudel. The product comes with a little frosting pack. In the commercial they showed a little girl, maybe 5-6, with the frosting in her mouth smiling and kind of playing around, in slow motion. People on whatever social medium was around complained and it was removed. But who would ever think that was ok?

[@valeriesjourney17]

I appreciate how you four handled this.

[@jillmacchitelli6473]

Thank you for the heads up that this documentary contains graphic content. After listening to your tough yet important discussion, I decided not to watch the documentary. My heart goes out to the survivors of these horrific events.

[@starTINAgirl]

It is so hard to listen to this only because you can really see how Christy struggles with these questions. Real soft ball questions, which shows how this industry cant allow her to tell her true story. What happened … these discussions are important for the participants to be vulnerable. Thank you for what you felt you could share.

[@Missmagazinebura]

Did she sign an nda?

[@brianalopez2245]

Alexa Nikolas does not beat around the bush like Christy does. As Alexa does not care to upset these industires in question. Christy is interested in future jobs and securing payments.

[@Disneydogmon88]

Thank you so much for this. The thing that I appreciate that you and Jenna did state that there is no room to pass the judgment on the ones who supported the pedophile because we have no idea what information was given to them. Or how the presentation of the information was shown. And I’ve been telling people that. I have also pointed out how unfortunately, there was for some ridiculous reason this concept of blaming a child to tempt an adult and it’s disgusting and it never should’ve been a notion. But victim blaming was extremely real back then. It’s still exist now, but it was much worse back then. So I really appreciate that you guys were not quick to be like well it was so-and-so fault or how could they do this or how could they not do because The parents were brought up in a different era and the culture. I know I can’t speak to what you guys went through because I did not grow up in that world, but I have always been aware or at least aware since I was 14 the concept of victim blaming. And it broke my heart and practically eviscerated my soul to see the amount of people who blamed him when he was child. Thank you so much for continuing to be an advocate as well as a voice for standing up for injustice and trying to come up with ways to fix it moving forward.

[@DeannaLouiseWrites]

Thank you for your sensitivity to this.

[@MayimBialik]

Thanks for listening! 🧠🫶

[@mfrances3374]

Thank you for addressing this Mayim & Jonathan. Yes, it's an uncomfortable topic, but I think that's why it's so important to discuss. I hope you'll continue to offer a safe platform for survivors. Their voices must be heard.

[@tiffanitus]

It’s so important to have these conversations, as difficult as it may be. Thank you. My core childhood memories included Nickelodeon. Between the shows and the monthly magazine, it was such a fun escape. I feel such guilt and sadness reflecting back now knowing what was happening. It feels like everywhere we look, people have endured some form of trauma because we were all told to be quiet and do what we have been told. Truly just hoping we can break these cycles and not be afraid to go against the crowd. Really wish more adults at Nickelodeon could have pushed back on the ones who were clearly in the wrong.

[@ct6852]

Same with the core memories. But even as a kid I could seen and feel the element of trashiness about Nickelodeon. They seemed to revel in the fact that it wasn't meant to be wholesome or respectable...just fun. Hence the slime and dumbass jokes and whatnot. Always kind of wondered about the adults in charge there just because it felt so different from school and other places for kids. Even as a child it's pretty obvious that kids need structure.

[@Pray4All]

Glad you are talking about this topic. Also you remember Corey Feldman speaking about this. He’s been talking about this for years .

[@jabinleecango7368]

This was the most well balanced view after watching that Doc and I’m an outsider looking in. And I agree with everything y’all had to say. And there is hope and that will come from people like Christy and yourself who stand up share their stories and advocate for those that haven’t found their voice yet to let them know that they do. Keep at it y’all.

[@MayimBialik]

Thank you so much for sharing and for being here! 🧠🫶

[@angelicwon9263]

Exactly the voices, I wanted to hear from. Thank you, for creating this space.

[@MayimBialik]

🥹🤯

[@se73a]

So excited for this already know it’s going to be good.❤❤

[@phatpharm06]

I know some people call this trauma porn, but I feel like sometimes it people telling their story. I don’t always watch all of it because “triggers”. I just feel like I’m listening to their truth. I watch Evil Lives Here for this reason. This was a good discussion. I’m glad you had it. Thank you

[@birdierose]

It's interesting to me that Christy doesn't think that talking about it or bringing it to light can in itself be helpful.

[@amyhon2000]

I had that feeling as well. I know it's difficult to face traumatic things that have happened in your life, especially things that happened in your formative years. But folks watching this are for the most part horrified that we didn't know these things were going on - not trauma tourists. Being loud about change needing to happen is a good thing. It's important to let the world know when these things happen, because sometimes shining a bright light is the only way to push change to happen.

[@ZukiTV]

She didn't have a problem when it was done on her podcast "Vulnerable", so I also find it very interesting the way she's almost inserted herself, as the documentary is focused on Nickolodean, to say something like that. I get she's also a child star, but that stance, when she's made so much content around other child stars' trauma... I don't know. Genuinely don't know how to feel. And this isn't me trying to be trolly about this either. I just don't know how to feel about her. I would prefer to hear more from someone like Alexa Nickolas, who was actually in Nickolodean and is aggressively doing something about making a change... Legal changes, through her social media presence.

[@SammKeno]

@@ZukiTV I couldn't agree with this more!

[@rydbthatsme]

Something very weird about her I noticed the more I watch her. Her answers are very curated and almost a little contrived in a way i don’t find very authentic or truthful. I used to watch all her videos but somethin about growing popularity seems to change some people.

[@juliasugarbaker9032]

I didn’t know who she was so I googled her, she was on Broadway as a child, but didn’t appear on TV until she was 18. Broadway and TV is not the same thing. She wouldn’t have viewers for her videos or podcast if people were not watching, and she’s here talking about a documentary she’s not even seen. As a trauma survivor myself I watch these things because it’s a coping mechanism and makes me feel not alone, calling that trauma corn is incredibly offensive to me as a survivor. She apparently wants to brush this topic under the rug. Why? It can’t be seen and and dealt with until it’s out in the light for every one to see, and you can bet if the public is not interested nothing will happen. I agree she should not be included in this conversation

[@hannahswan1193]

Thank you for sharing your side of the story Mayim. It's good to know that not all of Hollywood is/was as corrupted as 90s and 00s Nickelodeon was. The documentary was really interesting. I hope the children (now adults) involved and all those with similar stories get to have happy lives after the horrors they've experienced.

[@MayimBialik]

Thanks for sharing and for being here! 🧠🫶

[@hannahswan1193]

@@MayimBialik Happy to be here, you always post interesting content. Thank you for taking the time to reply to my comment 🙂

[@caitlynmartin1906]

This has been happening for so long, exploitation of children is everywhere. When is enough enough? It's simply entertainment... is it really worth the innocence of children? Even one child is too many...😢

[@trishtaylor9813]

Thank you Mayim for pointing out that this attitude/behaviours wasn't just kids tv... this was our world... this was our society... we all forget or don't know what it was like in the good "ole" days. It was a harsh dog eat dog world and when we were raised to "mind our own business" & "don't air our dirty laundry in public". You could force yourself onto just about anybody. You could raise alarms... but to who? Rich - Poor... colour... didn't matter, still in the victim blaming. We're seeing it all coming out in our religions, schools, charities - cults out in the open. Times were changing... we have come a long way but this Gen X'er has heard all the hate before when skin heads openly walked our streets, hate groups could hold parades for their children and the good towns people. they're coming for you and yours... makes me sick and so tired. I find all of this... epstein..pdiddy...tom cruise... very triggering; a lot because of outrage of "how did this happen in front of us" - because you didn't want to know; the saying "bad things happen to stupid little girls" was a thing, told to the stupid little girl. Just buy, buy, buy. work work work, survive survive survive... 52 and all the old gross experiences of my childhood, teen years and beyond all coming to the surface. My heart goes out to you all, I'm so glad you have a voice and a platform to evoke change for human rights. I hope we all get to heal and protect the next generation.

[@trishtaylor9813]

Note I'm so glad it is being talked about, our inability to do so has allowed this culture to flourish and continue for way to long, I am grateful to all those who found the strength to speak up and out!

[@dee9343]

Jonathan made such a great point about the kids on the documentary being expendable.

[@kindness_matters]

So being a survivor of a child predator I will tell you that most people don't have any clue as to what is happening. Not my siblings who were present through it all had a clue unless they were part of the abuse. It happens right under your nose and you will not be able to see it or smell it. It very well hidden by all. The victim and the perpetrators. YOU WILL NOT SEE IT. YOU WILL NOT SUSPECT IT. But nevertheless it is in someone's life that you know nothing of. You can live with the person and not know. So with that knowledge, there are so many more than you realize. Triple the amount of people you may think. I advocate people who have experienced this in their lives. I'm one of them. Former victim, now survivor at 65 years old

[@whosaidcate4034]

“I had no idea what the documentary was about” 🤦🏻‍♀️ okay really? With all due, I do not believe that. Great interview. Always appreciate the female guests❤

[@2peachyjello]

OMG I just had a memory come up because I wrote a fan letter to Mayim about Blossom show. Snail mail! I used to get books and magazines with addresses where I could write to my favorite stars. Thank you for your work, even if it was really hard for you. It did help me when I was little.

[@thechemama]

For me with the rise and fall of 8 passengers (youtube) and Alyson Stoners "Dear Hollywood" on youtube I've completely changed my thoughts on children and programming. Thanks for this discussion!

[@m_brokenleg]

What kind of depravity & perversion exists in some human beings that transform them into predators of what is most precious & protectable in mankind? Because it happened at all levels of society where kids are around: Catholic Church, Nickleodeon studios, even sometimes inside the same families? As a mom & a grandmom, I cannot write here the punishment that I would apply to these criminals, because they would close my account. Such an episode! It has left me with a bittersweet taste of mouth. I think that I’d not watch the documental..it’d infuriate me too much!

[@Leopardeye]

Man, JENNA?! My childhood! I still watch The Parkers, and youre my favorite character.

[@KathyZiemer]

Thank you for delving into this very difficult topic. The pain in Mayim’s eyes told me everything I needed to know. It is heartbreaking to know what these kids, young women and young men were exploited and abused for the entertainment of the masses. I’m a bit older than you, but I have younger siblings and many many nieces and nephews who watched these shows. I never really knew why, but I never liked Nickelodeon. It just seemed icky to me. God Bless you for bringing this to the Podcast. Your bravery , integrity and intelligence help so many people. ❤

[@ct6852]

Yeah it was kind of icky. I only liked about 20 percent of it...but that 20 percent I watched religiously for whatever reason. Not that there was all that much available for kids.

[@heathhart3]

Such a great conversation

[@heathercuevas978]

And Cory Haim what happened to him just breaks my heart.

[@RedHeadThriller10]

I am part of the eat predators tribe i think Alexa Nikolas would be amazing edition for these type of topic of discussion. She has been advocating and protesting against Nickelodeon and was on access Hollywood and CNN.

[@gr23452]

Maybe when she stops attacking one of the panelists in this conversation;)

[@RedHeadThriller10]

@@gr23452 I'm not sure what you mean? but I don't want to pick sides when it comes to like content creators...

[@janegotshalk6105]

Thank you, Mayim for your thoughtful breakdown of this topic. For 23 years now, I've worked with child survivors of violence and sexual abuse. While I was not shocked by anything that the documentary presented, it was very triggering and overwhelming content at times. I also have to say that while Christy is entitled to her own approach to all the noise about the documentary and talking about the documentary in and of itself, I bristle when she says she won't talk about this to anyone outside "her community." Part of what makes child actors more vulnerable is this notion of being in an isolated community. There are also plenty of professionals who work with children who aren't trauma tourists who want to understand so that they can be of service.

[@elisabeth-pereira]

It has nothing to do with the video or the podcast itself, but I just really wanted to share my thoughts. Mayim, I started learning about your career only in February of this year, and even being just 14, you have become so important to my life. Teenage years feels scary, but having the comfort of “knowing” someone who you identify with is just amazing. It’s hard to describe how you became such a big inspiration for me. My dream is to be an actress and a neuroscientist just like you ♥️ (I’m really interested in the neuroanatomy field of study!)

[@standupphilosopher7059]

You Mayim are exceptionally intelligent 🤓 and it's always a joy to hear your thoughts on various topics throughout the year🌸

[@MayimBialik]

🤯🥹

[@ncmacasl]

Thank you Mayim! Beyond the concept of "Trauma P*rn," these documentaries show survivors, particularly the VERY underrepresented Male survivor of childhood abuse (which, according to the CDC, is currently estimated to be 1 in 6 men being abused or assaulted in the US before age 18; females are 1 in 4). So proud of Drake Bell and the other male survivors of sexual abuse & assault in the entertainment industry who have spoken out over the last 6 years. #MenToo #BoysToo #1in6 - Male Survivors need to hear from other Male Survivors to know they are not alone and that help is out there.

[@TheSimmpleTruth]

I didn't finish watching this episode and here's why: I really admire Mayim in many aspects of life. However, Mayim, along with some others, seems to be surfing the waves instead of diving into the ocean. It feels like they're walking on broken glass, afraid of getting hurt or punished, fearing the consequences of their words. Comparing their dialogues with Corey Feldman's, there's a 180-degree difference in clarity, honesty, rawness, and genuineness. Corey tells it like it is: raw, concise, and to the point, black and white. While Mayim dances around the subject, hesitant to dig in and explain details and realities. It doesn't feel genuine or honest to me, and I don't think it's helpful either.