April Price was just trying to unwind by watching some television after walking her dog when her past suddenly came rushing back to haunt her. It was 2014, and a news program had reported that there was audio of former “7th Heaven” star Stephen Collins confessing to engaging in sexual misconduct with underage girls, leaked to TMZ. The recording was from a 2012 counseling session and was given to the police by the actor’s estranged wife.
As the news played out on the screen, April Price, one of the victims of Collins’ misconduct, felt a gut-wrenching realization. “I know that even though they bleeped out the name, I knew he was saying my name. I knew he was describing me. That was an absolute gut punch. Then the worst part for me, at that point, was finding out that I wasn’t the only little girl,” Price shared with Fox News Digital.
The scandal that forever damaged Collins’ career is now being revisited in Investigation Discovery’s new series, “Hollywood Demons.” Hosted by Dr. Drew Pinsky, the show delves into the scandals of life in the spotlight. The first episode, which focuses on Collins, features an interview with Price, who claimed that Collins exposed himself to her three times when she was just 13.
Having mustered the courage to come forward, Price shared her harrowing experience with the world. She recounted how Collins, who was her aunt’s neighbor, initially seemed kind and engaging. However, his behavior quickly turned inappropriate, with Price alleging that he exposed himself to her on multiple occasions.
Despite the trauma she endured, Price decided to speak out to empower others who may have faced similar situations. “I could push it to the side and not think about it. But as a mother, I would hope that my child would be able to come forward to me if anything happened to him that made him feel uncomfortable, victimized or endangered in any way,” she explained.
Reflecting on the incidents that occurred during her teenage years, Price recalled feeling shocked and uncomfortable but unable to confront Collins due to his perceived kindness. Over the years, she struggled to process the events until a chance encounter with Collins in her 20s, where he apologized for his actions, provided her with a sense of relief.
Collins’ admission of guilt and subsequent public statements regarding his misconduct led to a significant backlash, with reruns of “7th Heaven” being pulled from television and Collins losing acting roles. Despite his attempts at redemption, Price’s fury was reignited when Collins downplayed the severity of his actions in a televised interview.
Price’s decision to speak out against Collins, along with other victims who have remained silent, sheds light on the importance of confronting trauma and empowering survivors. While the statute of limitations prevented legal action against Collins, Price’s courage in sharing her story serves as a beacon of strength for others who may have experienced similar abuses.
As “Hollywood Demons” continues to explore the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry, Price hopes that her voice will inspire others to speak up and seek justice. Her bravery in coming forward serves as a reminder that no one should suffer in silence, and that sharing one’s story can lead to healing and empowerment.
