A heartbreaking story has recently emerged involving a former child star from one of Nickelodeon’s most beloved shows.
. Tylor Chase, who played the memorable role of Martin Qwerly in Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide, has been spotted living in deeply troubling conditions on the streets of Los Angeles.
His sudden reappearance—this time not on screen but in real life, battling homelessness—has shocked fans around the world and sparked an outpouring of support, concern, and criticism.
The Discovery That Shocked Fans. Tylor Chase, now 36 years old, was discovered living unhoused in Los Angeles by a social media influencer known as Lethal. The influencer, who has built a following through street interviews and interactions with unhoused individuals, captured footage of Chase that quickly went viral online. In the now widely circulated video, Chase appears disheveled, visibly exhausted, and wearing worn-out clothes. Many fans were stunned, not just by his physical appearance but by the sheer contrast between the upbeat, energetic character he portrayed on TV and the harsh reality he is now living. The video served as a harsh reminder of the hidden struggles many former child actors face once their time in the spotlight fades.
A Fundraiser is Launched
In response to the overwhelming concern expressed by fans, the influencer launched a GoFundMe campaign with the stated goal of helping Chase “get back on his feet.” The campaign quickly gained traction, raising $1,207 within a short time. The fundraiser description made clear promises: that the funds would be used to secure safe housing, food, basic necessities, and possibly access to medical or mental health support.
“This fundraiser is dedicated to helping him with safe housing, food, basic necessities, and the resources he needs to get back on his feet,” the campaign stated. “Every donation, no matter the size, will make a real difference in giving Tylor hope and stability as he works toward a brighter future.”
Donors and fans were hopeful that the money would be used to lay the foundation for real, long-term help for the former actor.
A Makeover Raises Eyebrows
Shortly after reaching the fundraiser goal, Lethal posted a new video updating her followers on how the money had been spent. In the video, she is seen carrying shopping bags filled with clothing items—including jackets, pants, shoes, and a backpack—each item reportedly chosen specifically for Chase. She then meets up with him and begins what she describes as a “refresh day.”
The influencer is shown helping Chase clean up: she washes his hair on the sidewalk using a plastic water bottle and personal care products, talking to him kindly and offering encouragement. Afterward, she helps him try on his new clothes. Chase appears visibly emotional during the process, thanking her multiple times and saying things like, “Thank you so much, these are so pretty.”
The video ends with Chase smiling alongside the influencer and another companion, appearing happy in the moment. While the video moved some viewers, it also left others feeling confused and disappointed—especially when it was revealed that all $1,207 from the fundraiser had been spent in just one day.
Public Reaction: Praise, Concern, and Criticism
The influencer’s actions were met with mixed responses. Many praised her compassion and willingness to take initiative when others may have looked away. Her comment on the video—”It’s such a blessing for God to use me as a vessel to help bless someone”—resonated with a portion of viewers who felt inspired by her kindness.
However, criticism quickly followed. Some donors and commenters pointed out that the original intent of the fundraiser—offering stable, longer-term assistance—was not fulfilled. Many believed that spending all the funds on clothes and a makeover, without addressing underlying issues such as shelter, medical care, or mental health treatment, was a misuse of donations.
Others argued that while the makeover may have temporarily boosted Chase’s self-esteem, it didn’t address the complex and long-term challenges he is facing—such as homelessness, possible mental illness, and lack of consistent support systems. One donor commented, “The original fundraiser said it would go toward housing and essentials. A haircut and new shoes are nice, but they aren’t a solution to his situation.”
Alleged Insight into Tylor’s Mental Health Struggles
Adding a deeper layer to the situation, someone claiming to personally know Tylor reached out to the influencer with details about his current state. In the message, the individual stated that Chase has been struggling with mental health issues for years, and despite attempts to help him, he has often refused structured or professional aid.
“Yes, Tylor needs medical attention, not money. But he refuses it,” the message read. “I appreciate your effort. But money would not be a benefit to him. I have gotten him several phones, but he loses them within a day or two. He can’t manage money or his meds by himself.”
Some fans recalled past social media posts by Chase where he openly discussed having bipolar disorder. Others speculated that he may also be struggling with substance use, though this has not been confirmed. Regardless, the situation has highlighted the unique challenges that arise when individuals with mental illness are also facing homelessness.
The Bigger Picture: What Former Child Stars Often Face
Tylor Chase is far from the only former child actor to experience hardship later in life. While many people remember the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the reality for young actors is often one of instability, exploitation, and pressure. Once the fame fades and the cameras stop rolling, many are left without the life skills, education, or support needed to transition into adulthood successfully.
For some, especially those who also face mental health issues or lack family support, life after fame can spiral into instability, poverty, and in tragic cases, homelessness or addiction.
What Happens Next?
At the moment, it’s unclear what long-term support—if any—Tylor Chase will receive. The initial fundraiser has been closed, and there have been no official follow-ups indicating whether any new plans are in place to ensure his continued care or housing.
Still, many fans continue to express hope. “The update I was waiting for! Thank you so much! You are blessed forever. I know he probably feels the love of everyone wanting to help and support him,” one person wrote. Others are calling for more structured, professional interventions that could truly help Chase recover and regain stability—not just for a day, but for the long term.
Conclusion: A Story That Raises Questions About Help, Hope, and Accountability
Tylor Chase’s story has moved people not only because of who he was—a charming character in a hit show many grew up watching—but because of what he represents: the vulnerable among us who once had promise and visibility, now suffering in silence.
While the efforts of the influencer have been both applauded and criticized, what’s clear is that a deeper conversation is needed. Helping someone isn’t just about kind gestures or viral moments—it’s about sustainable, compassionate, and informed action.
We hope Tylor Chase receives the professional care, shelter, and support system he needs to heal and rebuild. In the meantime, let his story be a wake-up call to society: behind every smiling face on screen could be a person silently battling demons off camera.