Drake Bell on Surviving Fame’s Follies: A Thankful Nod to Pre-Social Media Days
Ah, the glitzy, often absurd world of Hollywood! For Drake Bell, the former child star of Nickelodeon’s “Drake & Josh,” fame came with a hefty side of scrutiny, especially during the era when tabloids reigned supreme. In an exclusive interview with People Magazine, the 38-year-old reflects on the strange juxtaposition of adolescent awkwardness and relentless public attention, revealing that he often felt like the media was waiting for him to trip—literally and figuratively. “You’re walking with your friends and you trip outside of the Chateau Marmont… and the next day it’s like, ‘Drake Bell stumbles drunk out of the Chateau Marmont,’” he laments. Talk about a dramatic headline!
In a world where social media has turned every slip-up into a trending topic, Bell is grateful he and his co-star Josh Peck dodged that digital bullet while growing up. Imagine the pressure of comparing follower counts and likes! “We didn’t have to compare, ‘Why did Josh have more followers than I do?’” Bell quips, highlighting a common plight of today’s youth. Indeed, today’s young stars are often trapped in a relentless cycle of likes and retweets that can exacerbate mental health issues, as discussed in studies by the American Psychological Association.
As he moves forward, Bell has shifted his focus back to music, with his latest album, “Non-Stop Flight,” garnering applause—especially in Mexico, where he’s become a beloved figure. “There’s a strong love for the music outside the U.S.,” he notes, perhaps reflecting a cultural openness that sometimes eludes American audiences. This love affair with his music has helped him navigate the murky waters of fame, especially after bravely sharing his experiences with sexual abuse in the docuseries “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV.”
Bell’s resilience shines through as he emphasizes the importance of surrounding himself with supportive individuals and focusing on creative pursuits that bring him joy. As he continues to tour and explore new acting opportunities—including a romantic comedy shot in Mexico—one thing’s clear: despite the demons lurking in his past, Bell is committed to making people laugh and creating art that resonates. Now, how’s that for a comeback story?
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, American Psychological Association, The Guardian
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