Ariana Grande recently addressed the swirling allegations of misconduct and abuse at Nickelodeon during an appearance on Penn Badgley’s podcast. The renowned pop star, who began her fame journey on the Nickelodeon series Victorious, shared insights about her early career and the difficulties she endured during her tenure at the network.
While Grande refrained from making direct accusations, she communicated her solidarity with those who have voiced their own troublesome encounters. “I’m incredibly proud of the individuals who have come forward with their encounters at Nickelodeon,” Grande remarked. “Addressing such issues is never simple, yet it’s crucial.”
Discussing her rapport with Nickelodeon, which has been a topic of considerable conjecture, she disclosed that her relationship with the network was “complicated.” According to Grande, she felt pressured to conform to a certain image and often disagreed with decisions made on her behalf. “It was like being squeezed into a mold I didn’t fit,” she explained. “Despite my disagreements, I valued the opportunities given to me and chose not to cause disruption.”
Throughout the conversation, Grande emphasized the importance of self-advocacy and her commitment to using her influence to champion significant causes. She praised Badgley for his activism and openness regarding his own experiences in the show business, expressing gratitude for his support and friendship. “Penn is an incredible person and a genuine supporter,” Grande stated. “I’m thankful for his friendship and for the platform to share my stories and opinions.”
The interview has garnered positive feedback for Grande’s openness and her pledge to address vital issues within the entertainment sector. Her fans have shown overwhelming support on social media, appreciating her courage in leveraging her star power for advocacy.
This comes at a time when Nickelodeon is under increased scrutiny over several abuse and misconduct claims. Other former network stars, including Jennette McCurdy from iCarly and Jamie Lynn Spears from Zoey 101, have also shared troubling accounts of their experiences. In response to these allegations, Nickelodeon has previously asserted its commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive workplace, although they have not directly addressed the most recent claims.
