Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown has fiercely responded to critics who claim she “looks 40,” calling the remarks “disgusting” and condemning the ongoing scrutiny of her appearance. The 21-year-old actress, who skyrocketed to fame as a child, has spoken out against online bullying and unrealistic beauty standards imposed on young women in Hollywood.
Millie Bobby Brown Speaks Out Against Body and Accent Criticism
In a recent appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast, Brown addressed how media outlets and social media users have been fixated on her evolving appearance and accent. She explained that she is not intentionally trying to sound “more American,” but rather, as an actress, she naturally picks up on speech patterns from those around her.
“The press love to go in on me sometimes with certain things,” Brown said. “Like my accent changing, the way I look, and the fact that I’m growing up. A lot of people still want to see me as a child.”
Criticism Over Growing Up in the Public Eye
The actress, who was first introduced to the world at age 10, shared that she’s frequently told she looks older than her actual age. “I hear all the time, ‘Oh my God, she looks like she’s 40.’ But the reality is, I was a kid when you first met me, and now I’m 21. Of course, my face has changed. What do you expect?” she said.
Brown admitted that, in the past, she struggled with trying to meet public expectations. “It used to get to me. I tried changing myself to please everyone. But now, I don’t care. My face changes, my accent shifts, I wear makeup—it’s who I am. No one gets to tell me how to be a woman.”
Calls for Change in Media Treatment of Young Women
Millie also expressed frustration over the way the media scrutinizes young women, saying it can deeply affect their self-image. “It should never be okay to publicly dissect a young woman’s body, face, or choices. I’m disgusted that this is still happening,” she stated.
She added that constant scrutiny alters a person’s perspective: “You start seeing the bad in people instead of the good. You start wondering what people’s intentions are. The media need to relearn how to treat people with kindness and respect.”
Comedian Matt Lucas Apologizes for Mocking Millie’s Look
The controversy surrounding Brown’s appearance intensified when comedian Matt Lucas posted a social media comment comparing her earrings to his Little Britain character, Vicky Pollard. His remarks sparked backlash, prompting him to issue a public apology.
“I thought you looked terrific, and I was mortified when the press reported that I ‘slammed’ you,” Lucas wrote. “That’s not my style, and I think you’re brilliant. I never intended to upset you, and I sincerely apologize.”
Millie Bobby Brown Stands Her Ground
In response, Brown called out the media for amplifying insults rather than questioning why an adult man would mock a young woman’s appearance. She took to Instagram to declare: “Disillusioned people can’t handle seeing a girl become a woman on her own terms, not theirs. I refuse to apologize for growing up. I refuse to shrink myself to fit unrealistic expectations.”
Brown’s Personal and Professional Growth
Despite the negativity, Brown is focused on her career and personal life. She married Jake Bongiovi, the son of rock legend Jon Bon Jovi, in 2023. Currently, she is promoting her latest Netflix film, The Electric State, in which she stars alongside Chris Pratt.
Brown’s message remains clear: She will not let public scrutiny define her or dictate how she should present herself. As she continues to embrace her evolution in Hollywood, she hopes to inspire other young women to stand confidently in their own growth and identity.
