Photo Credit: Getty Images
Millie Bobby Brown is setting the record straight about her husband, Jake Bongiovi, after social media users questioned his role as a parent based on a series of viral photographs.
The 22-year-old actress addressed the criticism during an appearance on the June 11 episode of the podcast Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce. The discussion centered on the backlash Bongiovi received after images surfaced in August 2025 showing Brown carrying a baby car seat and two backpacks while out with their family.
Additional photos shared online also prompted comments from critics who pointed out that Brown often appeared to be pushing their daughter's stroller and managing many of the baby's belongings herself. The couple welcomed their daughter through adoption during the summer of 2025.
Responding to the online scrutiny, Brown questioned why women are often praised for independence yet criticized when they demonstrate it in everyday situations.
She explained that people assumed her husband was doing nothing simply because she happened to be carrying several items at the time. According to Brown, the reality was far less dramatic. She joked that she tends to plan ahead and move quickly, often finding herself several steps ahead of everyone else.
Brown also highlighted what she saw as a contradiction in public expectations. Society frequently encourages women to be self-sufficient and capable, she noted, but when women visibly handle responsibilities on their own, people immediately ask why their partners are not stepping in.
The actress made it clear that being able to carry her own belongings does not mean she lacks support at home.
She described Bongiovi as thoughtful, kind and always willing to help whenever needed. At the same time, she said, he understands that she is perfectly capable of managing tasks independently.
Kelce, who shares four daughters with husband Jason Kelce, praised Brown's perspective and said she appreciated her comments. The pair agreed that strength and independence should not be mistaken for a lack of partnership.
Brown and Bongiovi married privately in May 2024 before celebrating again with a destination wedding in Italy later that year. In August 2025, they announced the arrival of their adopted daughter, sharing their excitement about embracing parenthood while protecting their family's privacy.
