Stranger Things star: "I've been assaulted since I was 15 years old, and I've sought psychological help".

Millie Bobby Brown, the British actress best known for her role as Eleven in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, has spoken openly about the challenges she faced during her teenage years under public scrutiny. At just 15, she began experiencing hurtful comments about her appearance, which significantly impacted her self-esteem. The remarks, often derogatory and unkind, targeted her clothing choices and footwear, with some critics even questioning her sense of style. These experiences, which she described as deeply troubling, led her to seek psychological support. In a recent interview with podcast host Jay Shetty on his show On Purpose, Brown reflected on how these criticisms began long before she became a global celebrity. She recalled being around 15 when people started commenting that she looked like a woman in her sixties. Her fashion choices were frequently mocked, with online users expressing confusion over her choice of high heels. “If I wore an outfit, they’d say I look too old,” she explained. Over time, she realized that such critiques were inconsistent and often based on others' opinions rather than objective standards. Brown noted that while it was impossible to please everyone, she gradually learned that negative comments were filled with contradictions. “People often repeat each other’s opinions without thinking,” she said. This realization helped her develop resilience against harmful criticism, though it did not erase the emotional toll. Despite this, she expressed a desire to support younger actors facing similar pressures, emphasizing the importance of mental health care and self-acceptance. The actress has previously discussed the effects of online harassment, particularly in interviews with publications like Allure. In one such conversation, she acknowledged that psychological support played a crucial role in helping her deal with constant criticism. “It’s very hard when people hate you, especially when you don’t yet know who you are,” she told readers. “You start doubting yourself and trying to change to meet others’ expectations, only to realize there will always be someone who doesn’t like what you’re doing.” Over time, Brown has come to understand that she does not need to conform to others’ expectations. “My family and friends were my biggest supporters,” she said. “I learned that I don’t have to be the person others want me to be. What matters most is growing and staying true to myself.” This mindset has become central to her approach to both acting and advocacy work. At age 11, Brown became one of the youngest stars in Hollywood after landing the role of Eleven in Stranger Things. Since then, she has used her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting young people, including cyberbullying and sensationalist media coverage. In early 2025, she sharply criticized certain media outlets for focusing on her physical appearance rather than her work, calling it unacceptable that young women continue to be judged primarily on their looks. In 2018, at the age of 14, Brown became the youngest UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. In that role, she has actively promoted children's rights and regularly speaks out on mental health, internet safety, and the fight against bullying. Her efforts reflect a broader commitment to using fame responsibly and advocating for positive change.