Millie Bobby Brown, the talented actor best known for her iconic role as Eleven in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, has grown up in the spotlight, but she’s recently opened up about how her childhood fame has left her feeling like she missed out on some normal childhood experiences. When Brown was just 11 years old, she was catapulted into fame after being cast as the telekinetic science experiment turned hero in Stranger Things. Now, at 20 years old, she’s a married woman living a life far removed from the typical teenage experience. Despite her success and maturity, Brown admits that her early rise to stardom has had a lasting impact on her personal growth and relationships.
In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Brown spoke candidly about the challenges of growing up in the public eye. “I don’t have many friends, because of who I am,” she shared. “I didn’t 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.” Her honesty highlights a common issue faced by child stars: the struggle to form authentic connections and develop social skills outside the bubble of fame. Brown’s lack of a traditional school experience has left her feeling isolated in certain aspects of her life, a sentiment that resonates with many who have experienced unconventional upbringings. While she’s working on navigating these challenges, it’s clear that the pressures of fame at such a young age have shaped her in ways she’s still grappling with.
Brown also touched on the broader implications of growing up in the spotlight, a fate that has been both a blessing and a curse for many young celebrities over the years. Fame often comes with intense scrutiny, and Brown has found herself under a microscope since her early teens. Even the most mundane aspects of her life, like her preferences or appearance, have been picked apart by the public and media. For instance, she’s faced criticism for not being an avid movie watcher or for sharing innocent selfies, experiences that have taught her to be cautious about how she presents herself to the world. This constant criticism has made Brown understandably guarded, and she’s had to learn to advocate for herself from a young age.
In her Vanity Fair interview, Brown emphasized her intentionality about who she lets into her life. “I don’t allow many people into my life, and when I do, I think it should be super moderated,” she explained. This approach is a direct response to the harsh treatment she’s received from the media and public over the years. By being selective about her relationships, Brown is attempting to protect herself from unnecessary negativity and maintain some level of control over her personal life. It’s a strategy that many can relate to, even if they haven’t experienced the same level of fame. Her desire to set boundaries and advocate for herself is a testament to her resilience and self-awareness, qualities that have likely helped her navigate the complexities of her career.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Brown’s story is her recent marriage to Jake Bongiovi, the son of rock legend Jon Bon Jovi. The two tied the knot in May 2023 after three years of dating, and their relationship seems to be built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared values. Brown described their decision to marry as one they approached with care and intention. “We were pretty united going into it,” she said. “We talked about our political views, what kind of family we want to build, the kind of home we want to live in, the kind of relationship we’re looking for, the kind of careers we want.” This level of communication and alignment is rare, especially for someone as young as Brown, and it speaks to the maturity she’s developed despite her unconventional upbringing. For her, marriage hasn’t just been a romantic decision but a thoughtful step toward building a life with someone who shares her vision for the future.
Now, Brown and Bongiovi have settled into a quieter life on a farm in Georgia, where she spends her days feeding baby goats and fostering dogs. This peaceful existence seems to be a far cry from the chaos of her early fame, and it’s clear that she’s prioritizing her personal happiness and well-being. “It’s such an important decision, and we wanted to make sure we were making the right one,” Brown said of their marriage. “I knew I was. It always felt right with him.” Her words reflect a sense of contentment and fulfillment, and it’s hard not to root for her as she continues to navigate the challenges of her unique life. While her childhood may have been unconventional, Brown is proving that it’s never too late to seek normalcy, love, and a sense of belonging.
