Tylor Chase’s father reveals decade-long struggle behind Nickelodeon star’s homelessness

RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA: The heartbreaking reality behind former Nickelodeon star Tylor Chase’s homelessness is far more complex than many first believed. In a recent interview, Chase’s father revealed that the family has spent more than a decade trying to help the actor through addiction and severe mental illness.

Chase, now 36, rose to fame in the early 2000s for his role as Martin Qwerly on 'Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide.' Earlier this month, he was found living on the streets of Riverside, California, prompting widespread concern from fans who remembered him as a cheerful child star.

Tylor Chase’s father opens up about addiction and mental illness

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail on Tuesday, Chase’s father, Joseph Mendez Jr., said the family’s struggle began long before his son lost stable housing.

“He’s a wonderful person when he’s Tylor,” Mendez, 60, said, describing the son he still recognizes beneath years of turmoil.

“For over a decade, the family has sought treatment options for Tylor, including support for substance use and mental health care,” he explained. “In addition to addiction, Tylor has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, which require consistent medical treatment.”

According to Mendez, whose son’s legal name is Tylor Kurtis Mendez, the family managed to place Chase in a rehabilitation program around 2021. For a time, there was progress.

“Approximately four years ago, he received treatment in Georgia, and while there was improvement, he later chose to discontinue medication and resumed substance use,” Mendez said.

More recently, Chase returned to California to be closer to his mother, realtor Paula Moisio, in hopes of regaining stability. However, his father said the cycle continued.

“Despite continued support, he has refused ongoing treatment and assistance,” Mendez added.

Police say Tylor Chase repeatedly declined help

Riverside police confirmed that Chase has remained in regular contact with outreach teams but has consistently declined services.

“During all of our interactions, he has been cordial and cooperative with our officers,” Riverside Police Department spokesperson Ryan Railsback said earlier this week.

Railsback added that the department’s Public Safety Engagement Team checks in with Chase at least once a week, offering temporary shelter, mental health resources, and substance abuse treatment, all of which he has declined.

Court records show Chase has faced 12 criminal cases since August 2023, including recent arrests for alleged shoplifting and being under the influence of a controlled substance. Warrants have been issued in two ongoing cases, though police emphasized he is not currently being sought.

Former child star’s condition shocks fans

When reporters located Chase earlier this week, he was seen rummaging behind a 7-Eleven near downtown Riverside. Wearing torn clothing and holding a handful of Christmas cards, he appeared disoriented but gentle, speaking softly about the holiday.

“They’re very beautiful,” he said of the cards. “I just like to cherish the idea of them.”

Chase acknowledged vaping and taking medications including Prozac, Adderall, and Wellbutrin, which he said were prescribed by a psychiatrist. He denied having serious mental health conditions, contradicting his father’s account.

“I’m not really active homeless at this time,” Chase said, adding that he hoped to travel to Georgia to reunite with his father and enter a housing assistance program.

Shaun Weiss and former co-stars step in

Support has also come from former colleagues. Actor Shaun Weiss publicly offered to help arrange treatment, saying a detox bed and long-term program were available through 1111 Recovery.

“We have also spoken with Shaun Weiss and are working together in an effort to help Tylor,” Mendez confirmed.

Chase’s 'Ned’s Declassified' co-star Daniel Curtis Lee also stepped in, paying for a hotel stay and sharing a reunion video online.

Despite years of heartbreak, Mendez said the family remains hopeful.

“Tylor is deeply loved by his family and friends,” he said. “Their focus continues to be on his safety, health, and well-being.”