Ariana Grande has recently shared her thoughts on the troubling allegations surrounding Nickelodeon, emphasizing the urgent need to create safer working environments for young performers.
Speaking candidly on Penn Badgley’s podcast, “Podcrushed,” the pop sensation expressed her heartbreak for those affected by the toxic culture within the network.
Reflecting on her own experiences as a child actor, Grande revealed that many young performers lack the necessary support to navigate the pressures of the entertainment industry.
“A lot of people don’t have the support that they need to get through performing at that level at such a young age,” she said.
Her comments come in the wake of the docuseries “Quiet on Set,” which sheds light on the darker aspects of children’s television during the 1990s and 2000s.
During her time on shows like “Victorious” and its spinoff “Sam & Cat,” both created by Dan Schneider, Grande witnessed firsthand some of the challenges faced by young actors.
The docuseries has brought to light disturbing allegations of sual abuse, harassment, and racial discrimination that occurred behind the scenes of various Nickelodeon productions, including “All That,” “The Amanda Show,” and “Zoey 101.”
Grande’s emotional response to the revelations was clear.
“It’s devastating to hear the stories of those who have come forward,” she remarked.
She believes that the industry must implement measures to ensure the safety and well-being of child actors, advocating for the inclusion of parental supervision in performers’ contracts.
“Parents should be allowed to be wherever they want to be,” she insisted.
The singer also highlighted the vulnerability of young performers, who often seek validation from adults on set.
This dynamic can lead to unhealthy situations where children feel pressured to gain approval through their performances.
Grande noted, “You’re like, oh st, I’m doing something great.
Like, this is funny, this is good.”
Looking back, she acknowledged that the humor and innuendos present in their shows were often encouraged, creating a blurred line between acceptable content and inappropriate material.
“I think it all just happened so quickly,” she reflected, expressing regret over some of the clips that now seem questionable in hindsight.
Grande further stressed the importance of mental health support for young stars.
“For those pursuing careers in this industry, there should be mandatory therapy or professional guidance,” she stated.
She believes that unpacking the drastic changes these young performers experience is crucial for their well-being.
A source close to Grande shared with PEOPLE that while her personal experiences may differ from those who have spoken out, the recent discussions have prompted her to reevaluate her time in the industry.
The insider noted that she is deeply moved by the survivors’ stories and is eager to contribute to the conversation about protecting young professionals.
As the dialogue continues, Grande’s advocacy for change serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by child actors in Hollywood.
Her willingness to speak out highlights the need for a collective effort to ensure that future generations of performers are given the support and protection they deserve.
Through her platform, Ariana Grande is not only raising awareness but also calling for actionable steps to safeguard the well-being of young talent.
The entertainment industry must take note and prioritize the safety of its youngest members, ensuring that their experiences are both positive and nurturing.