Millie Bobby Brown is setting the record straight about the intense scrutiny she’s faced over her appearance — calling out the online criticism and plastic surgery rumors that left her feeling “depressed for days.” In a new interview with British Vogue, the Stranger Things star opened up about the toll public commentary has taken on her mental health and why she’s no longer staying silent.
Millie Bobby Brown on online hate: “I was depressed for days”
The 21-year-old actress revealed that during the promotion of her film The Electric State, she became the target of harsh online comments and unfounded speculation about her looks. Speaking candidly, Brown told British Vogue that the experience deeply affected her emotionally.
“I was depressed for three, four days. I was crying every day,” she said, referencing the wave of insults and plastic surgery accusations that spread across social media earlier this year.
According to People, Brown emphasized that while she understands media attention comes with her career, there’s a clear difference between reporting and harassment.
“I love reading articles on my favorite people and hearing what they’re up to. I understand that there’s paparazzi — even though it feels like s*** to me — I know that’s your job,” she explained. “But don’t, in your headline, slam me at the get-go. It is so wrong, and it is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry and are already questioning everything about it.”
Standing up to critics and defending her growth
The Enola Holmes star has previously clapped back at online trolls who criticized her evolving style and maturity, posting a now-viral message about refusing to “apologize for growing up.” She doubled down on that stance in her British Vogue interview, saying she felt compelled to respond not just for herself but for young women everywhere.
“If me being blonde or wearing more makeup really bothers you, I’m going to address it — not just for myself, but for every other girl who wants to try a new hairstyle or wear a red lip,” Brown said. “It’s like, get off my f***ing case, you know? I am 21. I am going to have fun and play and be myself.”
Her response reflects a broader message of empowerment — encouraging her fans to reject the negativity that often surrounds young women in Hollywood.
Millie Bobby Brown calls out “bullying” headlines
Brown’s criticism extended to the media as well, urging journalists and online outlets to recognize the impact of their words. She said sensationalized stories about her appearance can cross into “bullying,” particularly when directed at women who are simply growing and changing.
“It is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry,” she stressed. “They’re already questioning everything about themselves, and seeing those kinds of headlines can destroy their confidence before they even start.”
Her remarks have resonated strongly with fans, many of whom praised her for confronting a culture of body-shaming and unrealistic expectations for young women in entertainment.
A message of empowerment and self-love
Despite the negativity, Brown shared that she’s focusing on using her platform for good — aiming to uplift and empower young people who face similar challenges.
“I can’t silence the 500 million people behind their phones. So what is the realistic route here?” she asked. “I think it’s just uplift and empower young people. Can we fight back harder? Can we instill self-love and confidence into girls to be able to believe in themselves no matter what anyone says? That I can do. That I will do.”
Brown’s candid remarks underscore her growing voice as an advocate for mental health and self-acceptance, especially for those navigating fame or social media pressures.
Millie Bobby Brown on motherhood and privacy
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Elsewhere in the interview, the actress also revealed that she and her husband Jake Bongiovi recently adopted a baby girl, a milestone she described as “life-changing.” However, Brown made it clear that she intends to keep details about her daughter out of the public eye.
The couple, who married earlier this year, have been open about their commitment to family values and privacy. Brown explained that protecting her child from the spotlight is a personal priority.
Millie Bobby Brown’s evolving journey
From her breakout role as Eleven on Stranger Things to her ventures in film, beauty, and entrepreneurship, Brown has faced the challenges of growing up in the public eye. Now, she’s using her experiences to advocate for a healthier online culture — one that allows women to evolve without fear of judgment.
Her powerful message serves as a reminder that behind every headline is a human being — and that kindness, especially in the digital era, matters more than ever.
Do you agree with Millie Bobby Brown that public criticism has crossed into bullying? Share your thoughts in the comments on InvestRecords.com!
