Revealing the Dark Past of a Former TV Icon

Mar 24, 2025 at 8:02 PM

A once-celebrated television personality's life and career have been dramatically altered following allegations of misconduct involving minors. Stephen Collins, best known for his role as Rev. Eric Camden in the long-running series "7th Heaven," has faced public scrutiny and personal challenges since these claims emerged. The latest episode of Investigation Discovery’s “Hollywood Demons” revisits this scandal, featuring insights from Dr. Drew Pinsky and an interview with April Price, who accused Collins of inappropriate behavior when she was just 13 years old. This program also provides updates on Collins' current life, including his relationship with a much younger woman.

In the early 2010s, audio recordings surfaced revealing Collins' admissions of improper conduct with underage girls during counseling sessions. These revelations led to significant repercussions, including the removal of reruns of "7th Heaven" from cable television and the termination of his acting roles. While some cast members of "7th Heaven" expressed their thoughts on the matter, many associates chose not to participate in discussions surrounding these allegations. Despite the statute of limitations preventing prosecution, the impact on Collins' reputation remains profound.

Dr. Drew Pinsky comments on Collins' present situation, noting that he resides with a woman significantly younger than himself, described as a superfan. This detail raises questions about Collins' past actions and future intentions. Pinsky expresses hope that Collins will remain committed to his partner without engaging in further harmful behaviors.

April Price, the sole accuser featured in "Hollywood Demons," recounts her experience meeting Collins as a fan of his show "Tales of the Gold Monkey." She details how Collins allegedly exposed himself to her multiple times during her teenage years. Price's decision to speak out was fueled by Collins' televised interview with Katie Couric, where he downplayed the severity of his actions. In this interview, Collins denied being a pedophile but admitted to having "exhibitionist urges" and "poor impulse control."

Price emphasizes the importance of addressing such incidents openly, particularly as a mother concerned about protecting her children. Her testimony aims to empower others who may have suffered similar experiences to find their voices and seek support. Despite the emotional toll of revisiting these events, Price remains committed to advocating for victims' rights and raising awareness about predatory behavior.

While Collins has largely withdrawn from public view, the airing of "Hollywood Demons" ensures that his story continues to be examined critically. Through this documentary, viewers gain insight into the complexities of celebrity scandals and the lasting effects they have on both perpetrators and survivors. As the conversation evolves, it underscores the necessity of accountability and healing within the entertainment industry.