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Millie Bobby Brown has strongly criticized media outlets and journalists for their continued scrutiny of her appearance, calling it "bullying" rather than journalism. The 21-year-old Stranger Things star took to Instagram to address the negative headlines and articles dissecting her looks, particularly after her recent public appearance at The Electric State tour.
"I want to take a moment to address something that I think is bigger than just me," Brown said in a video. "Something that affects every young woman who grows up under public scrutiny." She expressed frustration over how the media has reacted to her growing up, saying, "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."
Brown called out several specific headlines that have contributed to this criticism, stating, "Let's talk about the articles, the headlines, the people who are so desperate to tear young women down." She listed examples such as 'Why are Gen Zers like Millie Bobby Brown ageing so badly?' by Lydia Hawken, 'What has Millie Bobby Brown done to her face?' by John Ely, and 'Millie Bobby Brown mistaken for someone's mom as she guides younger sister Ava through LA' by Cassie Carpenter. She also addressed an insult from comedian Matt Lucas, which was amplified in an article by Bethan Edwards.
The actress expressed disappointment that some of these articles were written by women, saying, "This isn't journalism. This is bullying. The fact that adult writers are spending their time dissecting my face, my body, my choices—it's disturbing. The fact that some of these articles are written by women? Even worse."
Brown emphasized that this issue extends beyond just her, calling for a broader change in how young women in the public eye are treated. "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 a girl become a woman."
She concluded her statement with a call for kindness and accountability, urging people to rethink their words and actions. "We have become a society where it's so much easier to criticize than to pay a compliment. Why is the knee-jerk reaction to say something horrible rather than to say something nice? 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, Brown received an outpouring of support from fellow actors and friends. Stranger Things co-star Matthew Modine commented, "Yes. Good for you! Brava." Actress Sarah Jessica Parker wrote, "Enormously proud of you. Xxx. SJ."
