A viral video showing a beloved Nickelodeon actor homeless in Riverside has sparked an outpouring of support from fans and his former castmates, who are now pushing for the troubled star to accept help.
Tylor Chase, who appeared as Martin Qwerly on the hit show "Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide," was recently filmed on the streets, prompting his former co-star Devon Werkheiser to speak publicly about the emotional impact of seeing Chase in such circumstances.
Werkheiser said that nearly two decades have passed since the show wrapped. "I haven't seen Tylor in almost 20 years since the show ended," he said, while acknowledging that Chase's battles with addiction and mental health have created a complicated situation.
The former actor said that throwing money at the problem won't fix what Chase is facing, as videos have emerged online of influencers offering their help to the homeless star.
"It's an everyday uphill battle to course correct. It requires a ton of support and patience and time," Werkheiser said. He noted that Chase's family members continue attempting to help him, checking in regularly.
Werkheiser also said he was frustrated that strangers keep posting videos of Chase online for attention. However, he remains hopeful that increased visibility could lead to real change.
"My only hope is that from this exposure, someone with real understanding and resources can step in, get Tylor into treatment, and help him get back on track. We all want a happy ending," he said.
Riverside police told TMZ they interact with Chase at least once a week, repeatedly offering mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and temporary housing—offers Chase has consistently refused.
A police department spokesperson did not return a request for comment from NTD prior to publication.
Instagram user Jacob Harris, who owns a barbershop chain and goes by the username JakeShipWreck, filmed a recent video in which he handed Chase $100 and acknowledged his contribution to television.
"Hey, bro, you brought us so much happiness on TV. I'm going to bring you a little happiness today, alright?" Harris said in a video posted to Instagram and later removed. Chase responded emotionally, saying "God bless you, my friend," before reflecting on the show. "Neds declassified, his school survival guide that he created with his best allies, his best friends," Chase told the influencer, reflecting on his childhood stardom.
"They explained their love for him and how much they want/need him to agree to getting help. He's now in contact with all the right people to get him the help he needs. He has a hotel room tonight to give him time to make the decision on his own," Harris wrote.
The next morning brought mixed results. On Tuesday, Harris met with Chase again, finding him "well rested and in good spirits."
However, Chase wasn't ready to enter treatment that day. "The city of Riverside provided transportation and a facility that will help him. Unfortunately, he wasn't quite ready to go this morning. The city now has Tyler's dads phone number and are going to be on top of getting him help. He has a close friend coming in today to speak with him as well. The process has been started," Harris wrote.