Remember navigating the treacherous hallways of middle school? The awkward dances, the confusing crushes, the dreaded pop quizzes? For many, *Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide* was a lifeline, a comedic beacon offering tips and tricks for surviving those challenging years. Airing on Nickelodeon from two thousand four to two thousand seven, the show followed Ned Bigby, along with his best friends Jennifer “Moze” Mosely and Simon “Cookie” Nelson-Cook, as they navigated the ups and downs of James K. Polk Middle School. Its relatable characters, hilarious scenarios, and genuinely helpful advice made it a massive hit with kids and teenagers alike. But what happened to the actors who brought those iconic characters to life?
This article revisits the beloved cast of *Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide*, exploring their roles on the show and where their careers have taken them since. From television stardom to musical pursuits, let’s find out what the stars of this beloved show are up to today.
The Heart of Polk Middle School
The show wouldn’t have been the success it was without its core trio. They were the faces of middle school survival, and audiences quickly connected with their distinct personalities and relatable struggles.
Devon Werkheiser as Ned Bigby
Devon Werkheiser embodied Ned Bigby, the eternally optimistic and resourceful protagonist. Ned’s character was defined by his unwavering determination to make the best of any situation, offering viewers a step-by-step guide to tackling everything from dealing with bullies to acing tests. While sometimes a bit clueless, Ned’s heart was always in the right place, and his enthusiasm was infectious. Werkheiser’s portrayal of Ned was spot-on, capturing the character’s inherent goodness and unwavering belief in the power of friendship. He was the kind of kid you genuinely wanted to be friends with.
Since *Ned’s Declassified*, Devon Werkheiser has continued to pursue his acting career, appearing in various television shows and films. He’s guest-starred on series like *Greek*, *Criminal Minds*, and *2 Broke Girls*, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He also branched out into voice acting, lending his talents to animated projects. One of his most recent projects is *The Prank Panel*.
Beyond acting, Werkheiser has also channeled his creativity into music. He’s a talented singer-songwriter, releasing several EPs and singles. His music reflects a more mature and introspective side, exploring themes of personal growth and self-discovery.
In addition to acting and music, Werkheiser is also active on social media, using his platform to connect with fans, share his thoughts on various topics, and promote his projects. He even hosts a podcast, providing insights into his life and career. Devon’s a very open advocate for mental health awareness, and often shares insightful resources and advice online. The kid from *Ned’s Declassified* has really grown!
Lindsey Shaw as Jennifer “Moze” Mosely
Jennifer “Moze” Mosely, played by Lindsey Shaw, was the strong, independent, and fiercely loyal best friend. Moze was the tomboy of the group, often seen skateboarding or playing sports. Her character offered a refreshing departure from typical female stereotypes, showcasing a girl who was confident, capable, and unafraid to speak her mind. Moze was also the voice of reason, often keeping Ned and Cookie grounded when their schemes went awry. Her quiet strength and unwavering loyalty made her an essential part of the trio. The will-they-won’t-they with Ned also kept fans tuning in every week.
Since *Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide*, Lindsey Shaw has achieved significant success in television. She’s best known for her role as Paige McCullers on the hit series *Pretty Little Liars*. Her character was a complex and compelling figure, contributing to the show’s overall intrigue.
Shaw has also appeared in other popular television shows, including *Teen Wolf* and *Suburgatory*, further solidifying her status as a talented and versatile actress. She is also active on social media, often sharing her thoughts and feelings with fans, advocating for mental health, and sharing about sobriety.
She has been open about her struggles, and used her platform to reach out to and inspire others. Shaw has shown that her heart is just as big as Moze’s was.
Daniel Curtis Lee as Simon “Cookie” Nelson-Cook
Daniel Curtis Lee brought Simon “Cookie” Nelson-Cook to life, the tech-savvy and endearingly awkward best friend. Cookie was the brains of the operation, constantly inventing gadgets and gizmos to help Ned and Moze navigate the challenges of middle school. He was also known for his quirky personality and his tendency to get into hilarious situations. Cookie’s character provided comic relief while also highlighting the importance of intelligence and creativity. He was the character who wasn’t afraid to be himself, and his unique perspective made him a valuable member of the group.
Following his time on *Ned’s Declassified*, Daniel Curtis Lee continued to pursue acting, appearing in other Nickelodeon shows and movies, including *Zoey 101* and *The Suite Life of Zack & Cody*. He has also guest-starred on other television series. Lee is a talented rapper, and he has released several mixtapes and singles. He continues to create and produce music.
He also maintains an active presence on social media, connecting with fans and sharing updates on his career. Daniel showed great promise on *Ned’s Declassified* and has shown his fans he’s only getting better.
Beyond the Core Three: Memorable Faces of Polk Middle School
While Ned, Moze, and Cookie were the heart of the show, *Ned’s Declassified* was populated with a cast of memorable supporting characters who added to the show’s quirky charm.
Christian Serratos as Suzie Crabgrass
Suzie Crabgrass, played by Christian Serratos, was the popular girl and Ned’s long-time crush. Suzie’s character was initially portrayed as somewhat unattainable, but as the series progressed, she became more complex and relatable. Serratos’s portrayal of Suzie captured the character’s beauty and intelligence while also hinting at a deeper emotional vulnerability. The push and pull of their relationship was a constant source of fun for fans.
Since *Ned’s Declassified*, Christian Serratos has achieved significant success in Hollywood. She’s best known for her role as Rosita Espinosa on the hit series *The Walking Dead*. She has also portrayed Selena Quintanilla in *Selena: The Series* on Netflix, earning critical acclaim for her performance.
Serratos has proven herself to be a versatile and talented actress, capable of handling a wide range of roles. She is now a mom and continues to be active in the entertainment industry. Serratos is a shining example of someone who used their *Ned’s Declassified* fame as a launchpad to greater things.
Kyle Swann as Billy Loomer
Billy Loomer, portrayed by Kyle Swann, was the archetypal middle school bully. Loomer was always causing trouble for Ned and his friends, making their lives more difficult. Swann’s portrayal of Loomer was appropriately menacing, capturing the character’s mean-spiritedness and penchant for mischief. Though a bully, he did have moments of redemption, and in the end, always did what was right.
Unfortunately, information about Kyle Swann’s activities since *Ned’s Declassified* is limited. He has largely remained out of the public eye. It’s hard to say exactly what he has been doing, but one can only hope that he put his bullying behavior far behind him!
Rachel Sibner as Lisa Zemo
Rachel Sibner played Lisa Zemo, the quirky and intelligent student who harbored a secret crush on Cookie. Zemo was a brilliant scientist with a knack for inventing things, which often got her into trouble with the school administration. Sibner’s performance was memorable due to how relatable her crush on Cookie was to many kids her age.
Like Swann, information about Rachel Sibner’s activities since *Ned’s Declassified* is scarce. It is hard to say what she has been doing.
The Enduring Tips of Ned’s Declassified
Despite airing over a decade ago, *Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide* continues to resonate with viewers today. The show’s themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery are timeless, and its comedic approach to dealing with the challenges of middle school remains as relevant as ever. While specific technologies and trends may have changed, the core struggles of navigating adolescence remain the same. *Ned’s Declassified* offered viewers practical advice on everything from dealing with bullies to managing stress, and those tips are still applicable to young people today.
Sadly, there haven’t been any official reunions of the cast, although fans continue to clamor for one. Cast members have occasionally expressed their fondness for the show and their gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of it. In various interviews, they’ve spoken about the positive impact the show had on its viewers and the lasting memories they created during their time on set. They often attribute the show’s success to its relatability and its ability to connect with young people on a personal level.
Ned’s Lasting Legacy and Looking Forward
*Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide* left an indelible mark on a generation of viewers, providing them with laughter, guidance, and a sense of camaraderie during those formative middle school years. The show’s impact is evident in its enduring popularity and the continued interest in its cast.
The actors who brought *Ned’s Declassified* to life have gone on to achieve varying degrees of success in their respective careers, showcasing their talent and versatility. Whether they’re starring in hit television shows, pursuing musical endeavors, or simply enjoying their privacy, the cast of *Ned’s Declassified* has undoubtedly made a lasting impact.
As we reflect on the show’s legacy, it’s clear that *Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide* was more than just a television show. It was a cultural phenomenon that helped shape the childhoods of countless viewers. The show’s positive message, relatable characters, and timeless advice continue to resonate with audiences today, reminding us that even the most challenging experiences can be overcome with a little bit of humor, friendship, and a well-written survival guide. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll see a reunion of the Polk Middle School crew, reminding us all of the importance of lockers, lunch ladies, and looking out for your friends.
