Drake Bell and Rider Strong, two actors who have been connected through past experiences, are currently in a healing process together. Strong, known for his role in 'Boy Meets World,' had written a letter in defense of dialogue coach Brian Peck when Bell accused him of sexual assault back in 2003. The incident, which involved Bell as the victim, resurfaced during Investigation Discovery's documentary, 'Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV.' Peck, who pleaded no contest to child sexual abuse charges, served time in prison and is a registered sex offender.
Recently, Bell and Strong have reconnected, with Bell expressing love and forgiveness towards Strong in a social media post. This gesture of reconciliation comes after Bell had previously called out Strong online for his past actions related to the Peck case. Strong, along with actor Will Friedle, had supported Peck during the legal proceedings, with Friedle later reflecting on feeling manipulated and regretful for his involvement.
In the podcast 'Pod Meets World,' Strong and Friedle shared their experiences with Peck, shedding light on the emotional turmoil they faced during the court hearings. Friedle recounted the distressing moment when the victim's mother pointed out the famous faces supporting Peck, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Bell, who confronted the other child stars supporting Peck in court, expressed his deep disappointment towards them for defending someone who had harmed him. He emphasized the lasting impact of the traumatic events and the betrayal he felt from those who stood by Peck.
Despite the tumultuous past, Bell mentioned that Friedle had never discussed the issue with him during their later collaboration on 'Ultimate Spider-Man.' Bell also alleged that Strong and Friedle only spoke out about the situation when they learned their letters of support for Peck would be revealed in the documentary.
