Former Nickelodeon child star Tylor Chase, known for playing Martin Qwerly on “Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide,” has sparked renewed concern after allegedly destroying a motel room in Riverside, California, that was generously paid for by his old co-star Daniel Curtis Lee. The incident, revealed on Christmas Day 2025, underscores the ongoing struggles Chase faces with homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse, despite efforts from friends and former colleagues to intervene.
Chase, now 36, first drew widespread attention in September 2025 when a viral TikTok video captured him living unhoused and disheveled on Riverside streets, confirming his identity as the former actor. The clip prompted fans to launch a GoFundMe that raised over $1,200, but Chase’s mother requested it be shut down, explaining that direct cash could exacerbate his issues and emphasizing his need for professional medical help instead. Funds were redirected to essentials like food and clothing.
Moved by the video, Daniel Curtis Lee—who portrayed Simon “Cookie” Nelson-Cook on the 2004-2007 Nickelodeon series—drove about 50 miles from Los Angeles to Riverside on December 23. He bought Chase a meal, spent time catching up (including a pizza outing and a FaceTime with another co-star, Devon Werkheiser), and paid for a motel room to shelter him from an impending storm. Initial videos showed a positive reunion, with hugs and conversation, as Lee expressed hope for Chase’s recovery.
However, the situation deteriorated quickly. On December 25, Lee posted a somber TikTok update: Motel management contacted him hours after check-in, reporting severe damage—the door left wide open, the refrigerator flipped upside down, and the microwave placed in the bathtub. Lee described the news as “devastating but not surprising,” noting family warnings about similar past incidents. He criticized California’s support systems for making it difficult to secure long-term help for those with severe psychiatric conditions and addiction.
Other former child stars have tried assisting. Shaun Weiss (“The Mighty Ducks”), who overcame his own addiction battles, offered Chase a spot at a San Clemente detox facility, but Chase reportedly declined treatment options involving hospitals or rehab. Chase’s father, Joseph Mendez Jr., has publicly shared that his son has battled schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse for over a decade, with local authorities frequently encountering him and offering services he refuses.
Social media reactions are mixed: Many praise Lee’s kindness and highlight systemic failures in mental health care, while others debate the ethics of publicizing the incident, with some accusing it of being performative. Comments range from heartbreak over Chase’s plight to frustration that temporary gestures like motel stays don’t address root causes.
“Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide” ran for three seasons on Nickelodeon, launching careers for stars like Devon Werkheiser (Ned), Lindsey Shaw (Moze), and the supporting cast including Chase and Lee. Chase appeared in 33 episodes as the quirky Martin Qwerly.
As of late December 2025, Chase remains on the streets, with loved ones and fans hoping for a breakthrough. Lee’s efforts shine a light on the harsh realities facing many former child actors, where fame’s fade can lead to profound personal challenges without adequate support.
This story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities behind helping those in crisis—good intentions alone aren’t always enough when deeper intervention is needed.
