Millie Bobby Brown has recently taken to Instagram to express her dissatisfaction with media coverage about her changing appearance. The 21-year-old star of "Stranger Things" declared during her video post, which she shared on March 3, 2025, "This isn’t journalism. This is bullying." Brown's message reflects not only her personal experiences but also resonates with broader issues concerning how women, particularly those in the public eye, are often treated.
Having started her acting career at the tender age of 10, Brown quickly became a household name after her breakout role as Eleven on the hit Netflix series. Over the years, she has grown up under the watchful eyes of the media and the public, something she addressed by stating, "I grew up in front of the world, and for some reason, people can’t seem to grow with me." The actress expressed frustration over the unrealistic expectations placed upon her, lamenting, "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."
Brown highlighted specific instances of cruel headlines targeting her looks, including articles with titles like, "Why are Gen Zers like Millie Bobby Brown aging so badly?" and "What has Millie Bobby Brown done to her face?" She even addressed the disdainful article critiquing her so-called "mommy makeover" appearance, stating it amplified negative commentary rather than promoting constructive dialogue.
"The fact is, adult writers are spending their time dissecting my face, my body, my choices—it’s disturbing, and the fact these articles are written by women? Even worse," she said. Her candid remarks shine light on the hypocrisy within the media space, where there is supposed emphasis on uplifting and supporting young women.
Brown's video served as both a personal statement and a universal call to action. She noted, "We always talk about supporting and uplifting young women, but when the time arrives, it seems easier to tear them down for clicks." This reflects the troubling reality many young women face as they navigate public scrutiny and body image pressures.
During the video, she articulated her refusal to shrink herself to fit societal expectations, firmly stating, "I refuse to apologize for growing up. I will not be shamed for how I look, how I dress, or how I present myself." Her fierce words empowered not only herself but also other young women who battle similar challenges.
Following the backlash, social media was rife with supporters rallying behind Brown. Comments poured in, applauding her bravery for standing up against the media's sometimes shocking scrutiny. Fans expressed sentiments like, "Keep inspiring and being the Giant you are," and many lauded her for using her voice to empower young girls everywhere.
Looking forward, Brown has expressed excitement over her upcoming projects. The new film—"The Electric State"—is set to release on March 7, 2025, and she has remained one of Netflix’s most popular stars for good reason, following her successes with titles like "Enola Holmes" and "Damsel." This season, she will also be seen reprising her role as Eleven for the final season of "Stranger Things."
Her situation presents not only her individual experiences but also the larger systemic issues women face, especially those who rise to fame at young ages. With increasing public discourse surrounding body image and the treatment of women, Brown's vocal refusal to accept unfair treatment may inspire others to speak out against similar media behavior.
It's about time society took a stand to protect the wellbeing of young women, allowing them to grow and evolve without the incessant scrutiny of the media. Brown's message concludes with, "Let’s do it for every young girl who deserves to grow up without fear of being torn apart for simply existing," urging people to shift their outlook and embrace compassion.