Millie Bobby Brown Speaks Out Against Media Criticism of Her Appearance
Actress Millie Bobby Brown is publicly addressing recent negative commentary regarding her appearance, calling out media outlets for what she describes as bullying and unrealistic expectations placed on young women.
The 21-year-old “Stranger Things” star recounted instances of harsh criticism she received earlier this year, including comments about her blonde hair and perceived aging. “‘Oh my God, what has she done with her face? Why has she gone blonde? She looks 60 years old!’” she recalled to British Vogue. Brown emphasized her respect for journalism but urged a shift in focus away from personal attacks in headlines, stating, “Don’t, in your headline, slam me at the get-go. It is so wrong and it is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry and are already questioning everything about it.”
Brown explained that the criticism arose during the press tour for her Netflix film, “The Electric State,” where she embraced a 1990s aesthetic. She shared that the negative attention initially left her “depressed for three, four days,” and “crying every single day,” but she found encouragement from singer Sabrina Carpenter, who reminded her to “F— ’em.” This experience motivated Brown to advocate for self-love and confidence among young women, hoping to inspire a change in how the media portrays female stars. The scrutiny highlights the intense pressure faced by young actors in the public eye and the potential impact of media narratives on self-esteem.
Brown acknowledged the difficulty of silencing widespread criticism but expressed her commitment to fostering a more positive environment. “I think it’s just uplift and empower young people,” she said. “Can we fight back harder? Can we instill self-love and confidence into girls to be able to believe in themselves no matter what anyone says? That I can do. That I will do.” Brown, who married Jake Bongiovi in May 2024 and welcomed a daughter in August, hopes her voice will encourage a more compassionate and supportive media landscape.
Brown stated she intends to continue using her platform to advocate for positive change and challenge harmful beauty standards within the entertainment industry.
