Millie Bobby Brown, best known for her role as Eleven on Netflix's hit series "Stranger Things," is no stranger to public scrutiny, particularly when it concerns her appearance. Recently, the 21-year-old actress has found herself at the center of controversy after changing her hair color and debuting new styles on the red carpet.
On February 27, Brown posted on her Instagram Stories expressing appreciation for British Vogue's article titled “No One Cares How Old You Think Millie Bobby Brown Looks,” following harsh criticism from online commentators. Many social media users have claimed she looks “old” after dying her hair blonde. The scrutiny increased as she promoted her latest film, "The Electric State," showcasing her new looks at various premieres.
At the premiere of "The Electric State" held on February 24, Brown captivated the audience with her stunning metallic Annie’s Ibiza gown, complete with a matching bolero. Her hair, styled high with long bangs and loose tendrils framing her face, drew attention and admiration from many fans. Despite this, there were also cruel comments directed at her appearance. "How long has Stranger Things been on hold? She looks 50," one commenter remarked on Deadline's X post, illustrating the harsh realities celebrities face.
This incident is not the first time Brown has addressed negative commentary about her looks. Earlier, she responded to accusations of appearing much older than her age, stating, "Women grow!! I’m not sorry about it,” on her Instagram Story, coupled with a smiley face as if to brush off the negativity. This reflects her growing resolve to challenge the unrealistic standards placed on women, especially younger ones, by cultural expectations.
Millie Bobby Brown's experiences are especially complex considering her rapid rise to fame. Just weeks after she turned 18, she voiced her concerns about the sexualization of young women and the scrutiny they face from the media. Speaking on The Guilty Feminist podcast, Brown said, "It’s gross, and it’s true,” reflecting on how turning 18 seemed to change the way media portrayed her. The actress recalled wearing certain clothing at events and how she faced backlash for simply being her age. "I got crucified for looking like a 16-year-old! Like, what’s wrong with a 16-year-old?" This candidness demonstrates Brown's awareness of the struggles many young female entertainers encounter under public scrutiny.
At another premiere event for her film held recently, Brown shared the red carpet with her husband, Jake Bongiovi, son of rock star Jon Bon Jovi. The pair looked every bit the elegant couple, yet their appearance also drew the usual barrage of internet scrutiny. Photographers faintly heard calling for her to “get your boyfriend” got Brown’s attention, who corrected them, stating, “He’s not my boyfriend,” to clear up any misunderstanding about the nature of their relationship.
Brown has demonstrated her fashion evolution by embracing styles from influential figures of the past. For the European premiere of "The Electric State" in Madrid, she donned a stunning sheer blue beaded gown reminiscent of Gwyneth Paltrow's iconic dress worn at the 1998 NYC premiere of "Shakespeare in Love." The homage to Paltrow not only highlights Brown's appreciation for fashion history but also reinforces her maturity and command of her style.
Yet, the comments around her style choice often veer negative. Despite the praise she receives from fans, Brown faces the sensation of being judged beyond just her looks. Some have remarked she looks “a decade older than her age,” emphasizing the harsh reality checks young women face when they choose to experiment with their appearance. This sentiment showcases the societal pressures rooted deep within the entertainment industry.
Brown’s recent public engagements are enveloped with the notion of growth—not just personally but as young women who are often unfairly portrayed. Following her marriage to Bongiovi, which took place last year, she offered fans intimate glimpses of their life together. The couple's relationship, which began in 2021, now serves as another aspect of Brown's maturity and showcases the depth of her commitments.
With each red carpet event, Brown appears poised and confident, channeling her teenage and early adult experiences to inspire others. Her physical style changes become not just fashion statements but also reflections of her self-acceptance and maturity. Her final thoughts captured on social media affirm, "Forever and always, your wife,” demonstrating her deep emotional bond, all the more convincing evidence of her growth.
For many, Millie Bobby Brown stands as a figure of resilience against the trials of early fame and public expectations of femininity. She elegantly walks the tightrope between youth and adulthood, embodying the strength of women who refuse to conform to outdated ideals. Her Instagram interactions with followers and the articles she shares signify her ability to counteract negative perceptions, hoping to inspire change and self-love among young women everywhere.
Beyond the glamour of red carpets and the buzz of Hollywood, Brown’s experiences resonate with many, as her voice brings attention to important conversations surrounding body image and societal expectations for women, particularly those growing up under the public gaze. This continuing dialogue initiated by Brown's responses highlights the need for rethinking how society perceives young women, especially within the entertainment industry.
Millie Bobby Brown continues to redefine her public persona with each appearance, signaling to the world she won't shy away from her truth or the evolve processes as she grows. Brown’s combination of elegance, tenacity, and advocacy not only critiques existing narratives about women's appearances but encourages others to embrace themselves unwaveringly.