The father of former Nickelodeon child star Tylor Chase has publicly addressed his son’s challenging situation, which has garnered significant attention following a viral TikTok video revealing that the 36-year-old is experiencing homelessness. The video, originally posted in September, has led to widespread concern over Chase’s well-being.
Tylor Chase, known for his role as Martin Qwerly on the Nickelodeon show Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide from 2004 to 2007, has faced numerous personal struggles. His father, Joseph Mendez Jr., a 60-year-old realtor from Georgia, spoke with the Daily Mail on December 23, 2023, sharing insights into the family’s ongoing battle with Tylor’s mental health and substance use issues.
Joseph explained that the family has sought treatment options for Tylor for over a decade, attempting to address both his substance use and mental health needs. He revealed that Tylor has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, conditions that require consistent medical attention. “He’s a wonderful person when he’s Tylor,” Joseph stated, emphasizing the struggle to find effective help for his son.
In 2021, Tylor entered a rehabilitation facility, where he initially showed signs of progress. Unfortunately, Joseph reported that Tylor later chose to discontinue his medication and returned to substance use. Recently, Tylor moved back to California to stay with his mother in hopes of stabilizing his circumstances. Despite this support, he has reportedly refused ongoing treatment and assistance.
The Riverside Police Department has been actively involved in addressing Tylor’s situation. According to Ryan Railsback, Public Information Officer, Tylor has consistently declined offers for shelter and support services from the department’s outreach team. “During all of our interactions, he has been cordial and cooperative with our officers,” Railsback noted, adding that the department reaches out to him at least once a week.
Joseph has also connected with former Disney actor Shaun Weiss, who has expressed a desire to assist Tylor. Weiss shared an Instagram video offering his support, while Tylor’s former co-stars, Daniel Curtis Lee and Lindsey Shaw, have also indicated their willingness to help. Daniel recently visited Tylor, taking him out for a meal and ensuring he had a hotel room for the night, sharing updates of their interaction on social media.
Despite the concern from friends and family, Tylor spoke to the Daily Mail on December 22, denying that he is homeless. “It’s not really like that, I have friends and family. I stay around here locally. My mom is here. I have a lot of good people helping me,” he stated. Tylor acknowledged taking various medications, including Prozac and Adderall, but refuted the notion that he has been diagnosed with any mental health conditions.
As the situation continues to unfold, the support from family, friends, and former colleagues highlights the importance of community in addressing such challenges. The plight of Tylor Chase serves as a reminder of the complex issues surrounding mental health and homelessness, and the critical need for effective support systems.
