Brian Bonsall Reflects on Fame and Guilt After Impersonator’s Crimes Against Women

Brian Bonsall Reflects on Fame and Guilt After Impersonator’s Crimes Against Women

As a former child star, Brian Bonsall is well aware of the challenges that come with fame. In the latest episode of Investigation Discovery’s series Hollywood Demons, the actor, known for his role as Andrew Keaton on the 1980s sitcom Family Ties, opens up about his early days in the spotlight, struggles with addiction, and the profound guilt he feels over the actions of an obsessed impersonator.

The Dark Side of Fame

Bonsall’s journey through child stardom was not without challenges. He recalls, “Family Ties pushed me to the limelight to a point where I couldn’t walk down the street.” This overwhelming attention often brings unintended consequences for young actors.

Substance Abuse as a Coping Mechanism

After retiring from acting in his mid-teens, Bonsall turned to alcohol as a means to cope with the consequences of his early fame. He reflects on how child actors frequently face emotional turmoil. Dr. Drew Pinsky, featured in the documentary, highlights the struggles child stars face: “Child actors experience mood disturbances and often turn to substances to manage their pain and emotions.” Bonsall himself states, “I found comfort in drinking because it was an escape from this reality of not really feeling like I fit in.” This destructive path led him to homelessness and multiple arrests for DUIs and other charges.

The Terrifying Impersonation

A shocking turn of events took place in 2013. While playing music in a band, Bonsall learned of an individual impersonating him to victimize women. “He had a bunch of my tattoos in the same places,” Bonsall revealed, horrified by the depth of the impersonation. Dr. Drew elaborated, stating, “Someone had adopted Brian’s identity, using it to start his random terror on women.” This revelation sent Bonsall into a troubled state.

Police Inaction and the Toll on Mental Health

In his attempts to seek help, Bonsall went to the Boulder, Colorado police, only to be dismissed with the advice to handle the situation himself. He recalls, “This cop did not take me seriously at all, and maybe that’s because I was borderline the town drunk at the time.” This lack of support compounded his feelings of guilt and helplessness.

The Arrest of the Impersonator

By 2017, Nathan Loebe, the man impersonating Bonsall, was arrested and later convicted of raping and terrorizing at least seven women over a twelve-year period. He received a staggering 274-year prison sentence in 2021. Bonsall recounted their first meeting in jail back in 2004, revealing, “I remember his crazy eyes. I met him in 2004 in jail when I was there for my second DUI. I guess he got really obsessed with me right off the bat.” This unnerving connection continues to weigh on Bonsall’s mind.

Living with Guilt and Regret

Bonsall admits it remains difficult for him to reconcile his fame with Loebe’s obsession. “It’s hard to tell that story. For one, it’s hard to not cry. There’s definitely a feeling of guilt. Those girls wanted to go on a date with me because I was a child actor.” The realization struck Bonsall that his public persona may have inadvertently contributed to the suffering of others, amplifying his guilt.

A Path to Redemption

In January 2016, hitting rock bottom propelled Bonsall to seek change. He dramatically declared, “It clicked for me. My drinking led to bad things. I was going to die.” Today, he proudly celebrates nine years of sobriety and is dedicated to making positive changes in his life.

The Role of Genetics and Childhood Trauma

Dr. Drew emphasizes the common challenges faced by child stars, discussing the genetic predispositions and childhood experiences that can lead to distressing outcomes. “People have certain genetic burdens and childhood traumas that can be detrimental,” he explained. The added pressures of adult responsibilities at a young age further complicate their emotional well-being.

The Rise and Fall of Other Child Stars

Hollywood Demons also explores the challenging journeys of other former child stars, including Dee Jay Daniels, Zachery Ty Bryan, and Orlando Brown. These individuals have faced their own struggles with addiction and legal troubles, revealing a troubling pattern among child actors.

Recent Incidents Highlight Challenges

This year, Bryan found himself again entangled with the law after reportedly choking and punching a woman. Details surrounding the incident showcase a troubling trajectory that echoes the experiences of many child stars who struggle with personal demons. Similarly, Brown, previously arrested for domestic violence, has been open about his erratic behavior during his rise to fame, further painting a picture of the pressures faced in the spotlight.

Reflecting on the Aftermath

Bonsall’s powerful story serves as a reminder of the hidden toll of fame and the burden that can accompany a life in the public eye. As he works to rebuild his life and navigate the complexities of his past, his experiences shed light on the darker aspects of Hollywood. “Hollywood Demons” airs Mondays at 9 p.m. on Investigation Discovery, providing insight into the harrowing yet often overlooked struggles of child actors.

This report is supported by contributions from Fox News Digital’s Lauryn Overhultz and Larry Fink.