Drake Bell Gets Real About Why He Experienced So Much ‘Stress’ After Starring On Drake And Josh

by

The TV show “Drake & Josh,” which features two stepbrothers with vastly different personalities, is known for its hilarious antics as they navigate crazy escapades. However, like most beloved sitcoms, it eventually reached its conclusion in 2007 when it aired its last episode. Since then, the show’s lead actor, Drake Bell, has shared candidly about the challenges he faced after the series ended, as he was just 21 years old at the time.

Drake Bell first showcased his knack for comedy on Nickelodeon through “The Amanda Show,” where he worked alongside Amanda Bynes and Josh Peck. Their comedic chemistry was further highlighted in the comedy series, leading to their reunion as stepbrothers in “Drake and Josh.” However, by the end of the series, Bell was no longer a child star; instead, he shared with People about the difficulties that arose from navigating the uncertainties of adulthood.

You find yourself in the world with no clear instructions or direction, left to your own devices to navigate life and make important choices, all while figuring out what is right and wrong on your own. It’s like being tossed among wolves, expected to survive and thrive without any formal guidance.

Growing up, there was no conflict, but rather a time when you had to navigate independently. As a child actor accustomed to the consistency of being on a TV series, I can empathize with the sense of isolation that comes from lacking direction as you move forward. If only transitioning from one show meant instantly having another lined up, so you wouldn’t be left adrift in search of new opportunities.

Following my time on “Drake and Josh,” I landed a few comedic roles such as those in “Yours, Mine, and Ours” and “Superhero Movie.” I even took on the live-action version of Timmy Turner in the “The Fairly Oddparents” film series. Unlike my co-star Josh Peck, who experienced a successful career resurgence with the Best Picture winner “Oppenheimer,” I struggled to move into more mature roles. Instead, I focused more on voiceover work, like that of Peter Parker in “Ultimate Spider-Man,” and reprised my animated character in other Marvel Cinematic Universe shows.

Despite growing up as Drake Bell and Josh Peck in the popular show “Drake and Josh”, they continued to maintain their reputations as they moved forward in their individual lives. Bell, an actor and singer, openly discussed the pressures and challenges of adulthood he encountered.

The pressure we felt stemmed from needing to set a good example for everyone. It was like being thrown into deep water without knowing how to swim – ‘Wow, I don’t even know… Should I buy fabric softener? Does it go in the washing machine?’ We had to be well-versed in all aspects of finances, including taxes, bank accounts, car loans, insurance, mortgage payments, and rents. Frankly, I feel like a fish out of water!

Pondering over the numerous adult obligations that come your way can definitely cause a lot of mental strain. And let’s face it, maintaining a good image as a role model becomes crucial even when you’re no longer acting in children’s shows.

Drake Bell faced a wave of scandal following his time at Nickelodeon, for instance, being arrested for DUI in 2015. Later on, he admitted guilt to child endangerment charges in 2021 and received probation for two years and community service of 200 hours. Furthermore, Bell generated media attention when it was rumored that he vanished with a possible suicide attempt; however, thankfully, the Daytona Beach Police Department managed to locate him.

Traveling to Mexico in 2008 turned out to be one of Drake Bell’s most fortunate events, as it helped boost his music career internationally. Following the success of his second album, “It’s Only Time“, which ranked at No. 4 on the Mexico Top 100, he gained recognition for his music worldwide. This momentum has carried over to his latest album, “Non Stop Flight“, with his current tour taking him across Latin America. Interestingly enough, Mexico holds a special place in the musician’s heart, feeling like home to him.

Despite Drake Bell’s days on Drake and Josh being long gone, he still occasionally pays tribute to the show. In May, the singer of “Te Desenamoraste” is set to host a 2000s bar crawl in Washington D.C., where he’ll perform the iconic Drake and Josh theme song. If given the chance, Bell expresses interest in doing something more unique with Josh Peck, such as another type of buddy comedy rather than reprising their roles from the popular Nickelodeon series. Here’s hoping we see these two share the screen again soon!

Transitioning from being nurtured to having to handle things independently can often be a source of stress, and this is something that Drake Bell, who was once a child star under the public eye, has expressed he could have benefited from more guidance in his journey. However, despite the challenges he’s faced, the gifted entertainer has managed to captivate fans worldwide with his music and remains committed to his love for entertainment. Revisit the nostalgic days of watching Drake and Josh on your Netflix and Paramount+ subscriptions!

Read More

2025-03-21 13:37