7th HeavenStars Address Stephen Collins' Sexual Abuse as They Launch Rewatch Podcast: 'It's Inexcusable'

Mar. 15, 2025

Stephen Collins as Rev. Eric Camden on 7th Heaven.Photo: Everett Collection

7th HeavenalumsBeverley Mitchell,David GallagherandMackenzie Rosmanare addressing their former costarStephen Collins’ pastsexual abuse.

Gallagher, who starred as Simon Camden, then said, “All forms of abuse, sexual abuse of any kind, it’s inexcusable. And victims of abuse need to be shown compassion and they should be given support.”

“As we rewatch these episodes, it would be impossible not to talk about Stephen because he was such a big part of the show and our lives, but we want to be clear that we did not have any inappropriate experiences with Stephen,” Rosman, who played Ruthie Camden, added.

7th Heaven cast.Celluloid Planet/Alamy

Celluloid Planet/Alamy

Mitchell went on to assure listeners that the cast does not “excuse or condone” Collins’ misconduct.

“Our hope for this podcast is to reconnect with you, our fans, to relive some 90s nostalgia and to share our fondest memories of7th Heaven,” she said.

“We know this is difficult and we understand that it can be triggering but we want to say that we love you guys and we are so grateful for all the love and support that you, our community, have shown to us. So, hopefully, you guys will stick with us as we continue on this journey.”

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In 2014, Collinsadmittedto “inappropriate sexual conduct with three female minors” between the years of 1973 and 1994 afterTMZobtained a recording of him speaking about his participation in child molestation. He later gave a lengthy statement to PEOPLE detailing the abuse and apologizing for his behavior.

Stephen Collins as Rev. Eric Camden on 7th Heaven.Warner Bros Tv/Kobal/Shutterstock

Warner Bros Tv/Kobal/Shutterstock

“On the recording, I described events that took place 20, 32 and 40 years ago,” Collins, who was known for his role on7th Heavenas Reverend Eric Camden for all 11 seasons, continued. “The publication of the recording has resulted in assumptions and innuendos about what I did that go far beyond what actually occurred. As difficult as this is, I want people to know the truth.”

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.

source: people.com