In a raw and emotional revelation that has stunned fans of the former Nickelodeon child star, Joseph Mendez Jr., father of Tylor Chase, has finally spoken out about his son’s heartbreaking descent into homelessness. Chase, best known for his role as the charismatic lead in the hit teen spy series “Declassified,” was spotted wandering the streets of Riverside, California, on Christmas Eve 2025, appearing disheveled and in need of assistance. TMZ first reported the sighting on Christmas Day, showing the 30-year-old actor receiving help from compassionate passersby who recognized him from his glory days. Now, Mendez’s candid interview sheds light on the underlying struggles that led to this tragic turn, painting a picture of a young man battling severe mental health issues and substance abuse for over a decade.

Tylor Chase burst onto the scene in the early 2010s, captivating audiences with his boyish charm and quick wit on “Declassified,” a show that ran for four seasons and earned him a dedicated fanbase. At the height of his fame, he was a fixture at red-carpet events, voicing animated characters, and even dabbling in music. But behind the spotlight, Chase’s life was unraveling. According to his father, the troubles began in 2015 when Tylor was diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder at age 20. This revelation came during a vulnerable period as he transitioned from child stardom to adulthood, a common challenge for young celebrities facing immense pressure.

Mendez described how the family rallied around Tylor, seeking various treatment options for both his mental health and emerging substance use issues. “For over a decade, the family has sought treatment options for Tylor, including support for substance use as well as mental health care,” Mendez shared. In 2021, they convinced him to enter a rehabilitation facility in Georgia, hoping it would be a turning point. However, Tylor rejected the structured treatment plan, discontinued his prescribed medications, and resumed substance use, leading to a downward spiral. “He later chose to discontinue medication and resumed substance use,” his father explained, emphasizing the family’s ongoing efforts to intervene. Despite their pleas, Tylor returned to California to be closer to his mother, distancing himself from the support network in Georgia.

This isn’t the first time Chase’s struggles have surfaced publicly. In earlier years, rumors swirled about erratic behavior on set and missed opportunities, but the family maintained privacy to protect him. Mendez portrayed his son as a “wonderful person” when at his best—kind, talented, and full of potential—but stressed that true recovery requires Tylor’s willingness to accept help. “His family has been trying for many years to get him the support he needs, but ultimately, he must be willing to accept help,” he said.

In a surprising twist, Tylor himself addressed the situation in a recent interview, downplaying the severity. “I’m not really active homeless at this time,” he claimed, mentioning plans to visit his father in Georgia soon and access housing assistance there. “I have the whole setup to stay out there, a room out there hopefully… Probably a housing assistance program in Georgia most likely.” This optimism contrasts sharply with the dire images from Riverside, raising questions about his current state of mind and access to resources.

Child stardom often comes with hidden costs, as seen in cases like those of other Nickelodeon alumni who’ve faced similar battles. Mental health experts note that schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, when compounded by substance abuse, can lead to instability, including homelessness. In the U.S., thousands of young adults grapple with these issues annually, exacerbated by stigma and limited support systems. For Chase, the path to recovery may involve reuniting with family and re-engaging with professional care.

As fans rally online with messages of support, Mendez’s disclosure humanizes the crisis, urging compassion over judgment. This holiday season revelation serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility behind fame, sparking calls for better mental health resources in Hollywood. Will Tylor find his way back? His father’s hope endures, but the road ahead remains uncertain.