Millie Bobby Brown is firing back at the harsh criticism surrounding her appearance, addressing what she calls “disturbing” commentary about her looks at the recent Electric State premiere. The 21-year-old actress took to Instagram on Monday to confront the backlash and call out the scrutiny she and other young women in the spotlight endure.
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.
Brown stated in a video message.
The Stranger Things star, who rose to fame at just 10 years old, pointed out how some people seem unable to accept her natural evolution into adulthood.
Advertisement 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.
she said
Brown addressed the criticism head-on, expressing frustration that people expect her to “stay frozen in time” and still resemble the child she was in the early days of Stranger Things.
Standing Firm Against Unrealistic Expectations
The British actress didn’t hold back in calling out media outlets and commentators for dissecting her looks. She condemned reporters and headlines that she felt were unfairly targeting her.
The fact that adult writers are spending their time dissecting my face, my body, my choices, it’s disturbing.
she continued
Brown also found it particularly disheartening that many of these critiques were coming from female journalists.
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 remarked
Brown emphasized that she would not be shamed for how she looks, dresses, or presents herself to the world. She also encouraged people to shift their attitudes toward public figures.
We have become a society where it’s so much easier to criticize than it is to pay a compliment.
she added, urging everyone to “do better.”
A History of Criticism
This isn’t the first time Brown has had to address harsh comments about her appearance. Following the Electric State premiere last week, she shared a British Vogue article that defended her against age-related criticism, captioning the post, “@britishvogue thank you.”
The article’s headline read: No One Cares How Old You Think Millie Bobby Brown Looks—a direct response to the wave of online chatter claiming she appeared “too old” for her age.
Earlier this year, Brown also faced speculation over her recent transformation, with some suggesting she had changed her look to position herself for the rumored Britney Spears biopic. The comparisons came shortly after she unveiled a striking platinum blonde makeover in February.
Additionally, in late 2024, critics slammed her for what they described as a “40-year-old Jersey housewife” appearance. At the time, Brown dismissed the criticism with a blunt response on Instagram: “women grow!! not sorry about it :).”
Refusing to Stay Silent
In her latest statement, Brown made it clear that she won’t let negativity dictate her choices or dampen her confidence.
Not just for me, but for every young girl who deserves to grow up without fear of being torn apart for simply existing.
she concluded
As she continues to gain fame, the Enola Holmes star is standing her ground, refusing to let outside opinions define her identity or self-worth.
Source: PageSix