Millie Bobby Brown a figure known globally thanks to Stranger Things has recently shared insights into how growing up on the popular Netflix show impacted her social development. In a recent cover story with Vanity Fair Brown discussed the unique experience of becoming famous at a young age and the challenges it presented for forming normal friendships and social skills.
Since the age of 11 Brown has been a central part of Stranger Things. This meant spending formative years on set rather than in traditional school environments. She explained that the on-set schooling and later the pandemic contributed to a sense of isolation from peers her age. This situation as Brown described hindered her ability to develop social skills in the way many typical teenagers do.
Why Did Stranger Things Impact Millie Bobby Brown's Social Development So Much?
Set Life Homeschooling and Pandemic Isolation Played a Role
Brown openly admitted she does not have many friends attributing this to her public persona. She stated "I did not go to school so I don't have the best social skills when it comes to people my own age and friendships. I struggle with that quite a bit. I missed out on a few things. But I am working through them." This honest statement highlights a challenge faced by many child actors the blending of professional success with personal development.
The actress elaborated that being homeschooled on the set of Stranger Things while beneficial for her career removed her from typical school-based social interactions. Furthermore the COVID-19 pandemic amplified this isolation further limiting opportunities to connect with people outside of her immediate work circle. This combination of factors created a unique set of circumstances that affected Brown's social growth.
Co-star Support System: How Did Noah Schnapp and Finn Wolfhard Help Millie?
Friendship and Solidarity Within the Stranger Things Cast
Despite the challenges Brown emphasized the strong bonds she formed with some of her Stranger Things co-stars. Noah Schnapp is mentioned as a long-time close friend offering consistent support. Finn Wolfhard also played a significant role in protecting Brown from online negativity. In 2017 Wolfhard publicly defended Brown against internet trolls demonstrating the supportive environment within the young cast.
Wolfhard’s past defense against online harassment showed the cast’s unity. His deleted post emphasized the importance of respecting co-stars and friends online. These instances underscore the value of having supportive relationships within the demanding world of child stardom offering a network of understanding that Brown could rely on.
Sexualization and Scrutiny: How Did Child Fame Expose Millie to Inappropriate Attention?
The Dark Side of Growing Up in the Public Eye
Another significant issue Brown faced was the inappropriate sexualization she experienced online from a young age. This issue became particularly prominent around her 18th birthday in 2022 sparking widespread discussion about the treatment of female child stars. Brown revealed she had been "dealing with" sexualization "forever" noting a disturbing increase as she became a legal adult.
Brown pointed out the uncomfortable reality that turning 18 seemed to intensify rather than diminish unwanted attention. She connected this to a broader societal problem of young girls being sexualized. This ongoing scrutiny of her appearance and personhood contributed to a distorted self-image leading her to take drastic measures to protect her mental health.
Taking Control: How Did Millie Bobby Brown Reclaim Her Narrative?
Deleting Social Media and Prioritizing Wellbeing
To combat the negative effects of online scrutiny and body image issues Brown made a significant decision to delete social media apps from her phone at 18. She explained this action was crucial because she felt herself becoming "way too obsessed with the idea of becoming someone else." This step to remove herself from constant online feedback demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding her mental wellbeing.
Brown also highlighted the importance of learning to say "no" at a young age a skill she credits to her parents' guidance. Her parents particularly her mother instilled in her the confidence to advocate for herself and set boundaries. This parental support system was crucial in helping Brown navigate the pressures of fame and maintain a sense of self amidst external pressures.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Millie and Stranger Things Final Season?
Balancing Personal Growth and Professional Commitments
Despite the challenges Brown's experiences also reveal her resilience and determination. She has not only navigated the complexities of child stardom but has also continued to excel professionally and build a fulfilling personal life. Her marriage to Jake Bongiovi and life on a farm suggest a desire for normalcy and stability outside of her acting career.
As Stranger Things approaches its final season Brown reflected on the emotional experience of closing this chapter. She described crying on set during her last days a testament to the deep connection she formed with the show and her character Eleven. While Stranger Things may have presented unique challenges it also undeniably launched Brown into global stardom providing her with a platform she continues to use to speak openly and honestly about her experiences. The final season of Stranger Things is anticipated to premiere on Netflix later this year marking the end of an era for Brown and fans alike.