In an interview with Variety published this week, actor Steve Burns - yes, our beloved Steve from Blues Clues - revealed that depression played a major part in his decision to leave the popular children's show.
During his final episode in 2001 Burns told viewers of the show that he was going off to college, but in reality he shared that hair loss, which made him not so "boyish," and depression made the role difficult.
"I didn't know it yet, but I was the happiest depressed person in North America."
"I was struggling with severe clinical depression the whole time I was on that show. It was my job to be utterly and completely full of joy and wonder at all times, and that became impossible."
He added:
"I was always able to dig and find something that felt authentic to me that was good enough to be on the show, but after years and years of going to the well without replenishing it, there was a cost."
Upon learning of Burns' story, many weighed in, acknowledging the work and love he poured into entertaining and educating a generation of children.
Variety/Facebook
Variety/Facebook
Some even shared their excitement over his upcoming film Blue's Big City Adventure.
@JiallCoran/Twitter
Burns said in the interview that he wished he would have sought help for his depression during his run on Blue's Clues, even if it wouldn't have changed his exit from the show:
"I would have been able to throw my arms around the role, and relax into it a little more."
"Because now when I look back, all I see is what an impossible gift that was."
Blue's Big City Adventure came out Friday on Paramount+.
