A former child actor known for his role on a beloved Nickelodeon series has become the focus of public concern after videos surfaced showing him living in difficult conditions in Southern California.
Tylor Chase, now 36, was filmed earlier this fall in Riverside, where he appeared to be experiencing homelessness. The footage, recorded in September, spread rapidly across social media platforms, drawing emotional reactions from fans and former colleagues.
From Nickelodeon Fame to Viral Footage
Chase gained recognition in the mid-2000s for his recurring role as Martin Qwerly on Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide, a hit series that aired on Nickelodeon and became a staple for young viewers during that era.
In the widely shared clip, a woman approaches Chase and asks if he once appeared on the Disney Channel. He politely corrects her, explaining that his work was with Nickelodeon. As the conversation continues, she realizes she recognizes him from Ned’s Declassified. Chase then confirms his identity by stating his full name, clearly surprising the woman.
The video’s rapid spread online reignited discussions about the challenges former child actors often face after leaving the spotlight.
Castmates Share Emotional Reactions
Chase’s situation was addressed publicly on a September 24 episode of Ned’s Declassified Podcast Survival Guide. Former co-stars Devon Werkheiser, Daniel Curtis Lee, and Lindsey Shaw spoke candidly about seeing the footage.
Lee said his initial reaction was frustration over someone being filmed during an apparent low point. He later admitted feeling conflicted about his own inability to help. While he first hoped the video captured Chase during a brief setback, Lee said additional clips suggested his former co-star was facing deeper struggles.
Despite that, Lee expressed hope that Chase could turn things around, acknowledging that his optimism may be rooted more in faith than certainty. He also said he wanted to check on Chase in person but worried that doing so could create discomfort.
Shaw echoed those sentiments, saying she wished she could see Chase face-to-face to offer support. She spoke emotionally about their past bond, saying she missed him and still cared deeply about his well-being.
Werkheiser described the situation as overwhelming and difficult to process. While he said it was uncomfortable to see Chase filmed during a vulnerable moment, he suggested the woman who shared the video may have had good intentions. He added that it was painful to witness someone he cared about facing such circumstances.
Career Background
According to reports from the Daily Mail, Chase began his acting career in the early 2000s after growing up in Arizona. His role on Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide remains his most widely recognized work.
He also appeared in Everybody Hates Chris in 2005 and later played Young Adam in the 2008 film Good Time Max, which starred James Franco.
The renewed attention surrounding Chase’s situation has fueled broader conversations about mental health, financial instability, and the lack of long-term support systems for former child performers after early fame fades.