Lori Beth Denberg, known for her stint on Nickelodeon’s All That, has joined the chorus of former Nick stars speaking out against Dan Schneider. The recent release of Investigation Discovery’s “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” docu-series shone a spotlight on the alleged inappropriate conduct during Schneider’s tenure at Nickelodeon, prompting Denberg to share her experiences.
In a candid interview with Business Insider, Denberg recounted her time on All That, alleging a troubling dynamic with Schneider, who served as a producer on the show. Denberg claimed that their relationship, which began when she was 19, quickly turned into what she now describes as an “inappropriate power imbalance.”
According to Denberg, Schneider engaged in unsettling behavior, including discussions of sexual topics over the phone and even initiating phone sex. Denberg also alleged instances of physical contact, stating that Schneider would often give her massages during her visits to his house, and on one occasion, allegedly fondled and kissed her breasts.
Reflecting on her experiences, Denberg expressed her belief that Schneider preyed on her during this time. She also detailed instances of Schneider allegedly exposing her to pornography and lashing out at her on set.
Denberg’s concerns didn’t stop there. She claimed to have raised alarms about Amanda Bynes’ well-being to then-president of Nickelodeon Entertainment, Albie Hecht, and All That co-creator Brian Robbins. Denberg cited Bynes’ appearance as a cause for concern, noting that she appeared “gaunt.” However, following her advocacy, Denberg alleged that she faced repercussions, including being barred from the set of The Amanda Show.
In response to Denberg’s allegations, Schneider issued a statement to USA Today, denying the claims and characterizing them as “wildly exaggerated” and, in most cases, false. He suggested that the timing of Denberg’s interview, coinciding with his defamation lawsuit against “Quiet on Set,” was more than coincidental.
Schneider acknowledged that, early in his career, he may have made mistakes and exercised poor judgment, but maintained that he cannot apologize for things he did not do. He expressed a willingness to apologize if he had indeed mistreated Denberg but stood firm in denying the allegations leveled against him.
The allegations against Schneider add to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the culture at Nickelodeon during his tenure. As more former stars come forward with their accounts, the industry continues to grapple with issues of power dynamics and workplace conduct.
