Millie Bobby Brown called out media outlets for their "disturbing" coverage of her physical appearance, expressing her frustration over the unrealistic expectations imposed on her as she transitions from girlhood to womanhood. The 18-year-old actress took to Instagram on March 4, 2025, to address the issue, aiming to highlight what she described as bullying rather than journalism.
Brown, who first entered the entertainment industry at the tender age of 10, underscored the toll of growing up under constant public scrutiny. "I started in this industry when I was 10 years old. I grew up in front of the world, and for some reason, people can’t seem to grow with me. Instead, they act like I’m supposed to stay frozen in time, like I should still look the way I did on Stranger Things Season 1. And because I don’t, I’m now a target," she stated.
Among the headlines she cited as particularly problematic were articles asking, "Why are Gen Zers like Millie Bobby Brown aging so badly?" and "What has Millie Bobby Brown done to her face?" She was particularly affronted by comments from British comedian Matt Lucas, who had reportedly taken aim at her appearance, stating, "Little Britain’s Matt Lucas takes savage swipe at Millie Bobby Brown’s new ‘mommy makeover’ look." To Brown, these articles merely amplified insults rather than sparking necessary conversations about the harmful scrutiny young women face.
"This isn’t journalism. This is bullying. The fact adult writers are spending their time dissecting my face, my body, my choices is disturbing. The fact some of these articles are written by women? Even worse," she said. Brown's indictment highlights the troubling trend of public figures receiving disproportionate criticism about their looks, especially from women—who are expected to uplift one another.
"We always talk about supporting and uplifting young women, but when it’s time to do so, it seems like it’s easier to tear them down for clicks. Disillusioned people can’t handle seeing a girl become a woman on her terms, not theirs. I refuse to apologize for growing up. I refuse to make myself smaller to fit the unrealistic expectations of people who can’t handle seeing me grow up," Brown asserted.
Her reflections merged personal narrative with broader societal issues. "Why is it the knee-jerk reaction to say something horrible rather than just say something nice?" she questioned. "If you have a problem with me growing up, what does it say about you? Let's do this right, not just for me, but for every young girl who deserves to grow up without the fear of being torn apart for simply existing." This message resonates deeply amid growing conversations around body positivity and the pressures women face as they age.
Millie Bobby Brown's recent Instagram address came as she concluded her promotional tour for her upcoming film, The Electric State, set to premiere on Netflix on March 7, 2025. Brown has been actively attending various events, including the SAG Awards on February 23, the Los Angeles premiere of her film on February 24, and the BRIT Awards on March 2. Her changing appearance has become fodder for criticism, leading her to reflect on the expectations placed upon young women as they grow up and mature.
Earlier this year, Brown had to contend with online trolls who commented harshly on her looks, absurdly claiming she appeared much older. She addressed this with her usual candor, stating, "Women grow!! Not sorry about it." The support following her latest video and declarations has been significant, with fellow actors and fans rallying around her. Notable figures like Mckenna Grace, who also grew up as a child star, voiced admiration for Brown’s articulate representation of young women's struggles.
While the media often shines under scrutiny for gender biases and unrealistic beauty standards, Brown's comments strike at the heart of why such discussions matter: they challenge the status quo of how society perceives and treats young women, especially those who are subjected to fame at such young ages.
Millie Bobby Brown's bold stand offers a reminder: it’s about time for cultural shift—a change toward kindness and support rather than criticism. The conversations generated by her video extend beyond her individual experience; they reflect what countless young women face daily as they navigate society’s often unforgiving and superficial standards.
Now well-established as both actress and vocal advocate for young women, Brown continues to demonstrate resilience and grace. If her message encourages just one person to reconsider how they engage with others online, it will have achieved its purpose.