March 4, 2025: Actor Millie Bobby Brown, who rose to fame with her role as Eleven in the hit series Stranger Things, has taken a stand against the media for their “disturbing” coverage of her changing appearance. In a candid Instagram post, Millie addressed the ongoing scrutiny and criticism she faces as she grows up in the public eye.
The actress, who started her career at the age of 10, spoke out about the harmful way the media has treated her, particularly in regard to the constant dissection of her physical changes. Millie highlighted the disturbing headlines and articles that focus on her body and looks instead of her talent.
“I want to take a moment to address something that I think is bigger than just me, something that affects every young woman who grows up under public scrutiny,” Millie wrote. “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.”
Millie pointed out specific articles and headlines that were particularly hurtful, including one titled, “Why are Gen Zers like Millie Bobby Brown aging so badly?” She also mentioned headlines from various tabloids that mocked her for her appearance, one even referring to her as “someone’s mom” and another, published by Little Britain’s Matt Lucas, taking a harsh swipe at her “mommy makeover” look. “This isn’t journalism. This is bullying,” she said.
What was even more disheartening for Millie was seeing that some of these articles were written by women. She expressed disappointment that, despite conversations about supporting and uplifting young women, some people, especially in the media, were quick to tear her down for the sake of clicks and attention. She said, “The fact that some of these articles are written by women? Even worse. We always talk about supporting and uplifting young women, but when the time comes, it seems easier to tear them down for clicks.”
The 19-year-old actress made it clear that she would not apologize for growing up or changing. “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 a girl become a woman,” she said. “I will not be shamed for how I look, how I dress, or how I present myself.”
Millie went on to challenge society’s culture of negativity, pointing out that it is often easier to criticize than to give a compliment. She asked, “Why is the knee-jerk reaction to say something horrible rather than to say something nice?” She also encouraged people to reflect on what makes them uncomfortable when they see someone like her grow and change in front of the world.
Her message ended on a powerful note, urging people to do better for the sake of young women everywhere: “Let’s do better. Not just for me, but for every young girl who deserves to grow up without fear of being torn apart for simply existing.”
Following her post, Millie’s fans rushed to the comment section to show their unwavering support for her, with many applauding her for speaking out against the toxic culture surrounding body image and public scrutiny.