When a former child-star’s Instagram feed turned into a plea for help, a familiar face answered the call.
The Video That Sparked Action
In a December 2023 Instagram video posted on Dec. 23, Daniel Curtis Lee, 34, explained how he had come across a heartbreaking clip of his former co-star, Tylor Chase, 36, living on the streets of California. “I just wanted to give you an update,” Lee said, describing the moment he saw the footage.
He recounted a night when Shaun Weiss and his team had attempted to escort Chase into a hospital. “Shaun Weiss and his team put a lot of effort into trying to get him into a hospital last night-and I thought it worked. His dad told me it worked, but it turns out he kind of backed out,” Lee added.
A Pizza, a FaceTime, and a Hotel Room
After the failed hospital attempt, Lee decided to meet Chase in person. He filmed their reunion, noting that they shared a slice of pizza together. “So, today I went to have pizza with him,” he continued, showing footage of the meal. He also arranged for Chase to chat with another former co-star, Devon Werkheiser.
Following their FaceTime conversation, Lee helped Chase secure a place to stay. “He trusted an old friend,” Lee said. “He wanted to stay local and this was the only one that was open.” The accommodation was a hotel, chosen because of the busy holiday season and limited options.
A Moment of Human Connection
The two actors shared a hug before parting ways. Lee promised to check on Chase again, while Chase expressed gratitude. “Love you, dude,” Chase replied. “Thank you. I’m so happy to see you.”
Lee’s Instagram post from Dec. 22 emphasized the emotional bond. “He’s on my heart, often on my mind,” he wrote. He also noted that Chase seemed excited by the outpouring of support: “He seems to be really excited about the fact that so many people have been inspired by him.”
Community Rallying Behind Chase
The story has sparked a broader community response. Devon Werkheiser, who played Ned Bigby on the Nickelodeon series, shared his thoughts on the situation. In a Dec. 22 interview with TMZ, Werkheiser said, “We all want a happy ending.” He added, “Tylor was a sensitive, sweet, and kind kid.”
Werkheiser described the current state of Chase as heartbreaking: “It is heartbreaking to see him this way.” He expressed hope that the exposure would lead to someone with the right resources stepping in. “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.”
The Role of Social Media and Public Support
Both Lee and Werkheiser used social media to raise awareness. Lee’s Dec. 23 Instagram video not only documented the immediate help he offered but also highlighted the ongoing need for medical and housing support. The public’s response has been swift, with many fans expressing their own support and calling for additional resources.
The situation underscores the power of former co-stars reaching out to each other and to their audiences when a peer faces hardship. While the immediate outcome was a temporary hotel stay, the narrative has opened a conversation about homelessness among former child actors and the importance of community support.
Key Takeaways
- Tylor Chase, 36, was seen homeless in California, prompting former co-star Daniel Curtis Lee to intervene.
- Lee arranged pizza, a FaceTime call with Devon Werkheiser, and a hotel stay during the holiday season.
- The community, including Werkheiser, has rallied behind Chase, calling for treatment and resources.
The story remains a poignant reminder of how quickly circumstances can change and how vital it is for peers and fans alike to step forward when help is needed.
Closing Thoughts
Daniel Curtis Lee’s quick response and Devon Werkheiser’s public support illustrate the enduring bonds formed on set. Their actions bring attention to a pressing social issue while offering a glimmer of hope for a former child actor in distress. As the community continues to rally, the hope is that Tylor Chase will receive the comprehensive care he needs to rebuild his life.
