Child TV Star Recues Former Co-Star from the Streets in Emotional Holiday Reunion

In a story that has gripped fans of early-2000s Nickelodeon nostalgia, actor Daniel Curtis Lee has stepped in to rescue his former co-star Tylor Chase from homelessness, offering shelter, a hot meal, and a glimmer of hope amid a heartbreaking holiday season.

The two shared the screen on the beloved series Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide (2004–2007), where Lee played the quirky Simon "Cookie" Nelson-Cook and Chase portrayed the eccentric, brainy Martin Qwerly. What began as lighthearted classroom antics has now given way to a real-life drama that highlights the often-hidden struggles of former child stars.

Chase's troubles first came to public attention in September 2025 when viral TikTok videos showed the 36-year-old living on the streets of Riverside, California. In one widely shared clip, he casually confirmed his Nickelodeon past when approached by a passerby. The footage sparked an outpouring of concern, with fans and fellow former child actors rallying to help.

Daniel Curtis Lee, now 34, took decisive action after a recent resurgence of the videos in December. Driving roughly 50 miles from Los Angeles, he located Chase, treated him to pizza, and arranged a temporary stay at a local motel just before heavy Southern California rains hit. The reunion was captured in emotional footage shared by Lee on Instagram: the two men embracing tightly after years apart, with Chase appearing receptive during heartfelt conversations about family, recovery, and next steps.

Lee also facilitated a FaceTime call with another co-star, Devon Werkheiser, and even connected Chase with his father - a moment Lee described as profoundly moving. 'Love is all we can really give people sometimes,' Lee posted, expressing optimism that this could be 'one step closer to long-term treatment.'

While the motel stay provided immediate relief and protection from the storm, updates from Lee indicate challenges remain, including reports that Chase later left the room in disarray.