In a revealing new interview, British actor Millie Bobby Brown has opened up about her journey as Eleven in the hit Netflix series, Stranger Things, and her aspirations beyond the iconic role.
Since skyrocketing to fame at the age of 11 with her portrayal of Eleven, Millie has become a household name. However, with Stranger Things gearing up to shoot its fifth and final season after the actors’ strike resolution, the 19-year-old has candidly expressed her readiness to bid adieu to the series.
Speaking with Glamour, Millie admitted, "While [Stranger Things] has given me the tools and the resources to be a better actor, it’s taken up a lot of time to film and it’s preventing me from creating stories that I’m passionate about.”
She is eager to explore narratives she resonates with, suggesting her departure from Hawkins might be the beginning of another chapter in her career.
Despite the looming end of the series, Millie is optimistic about retaining her close-knit relationships with co-stars like Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Caleb McLaughlin, and Gaten Matarazzo. “When it ends, I’m going to be able to still see these people,” she remarked.
But her meteoric rise wasn't without its challenges. Millie delved into the harsh criticisms she faced during her early years on the show. Reminiscing about group interviews with her fellow cast members, she said, “I was just penalised for overtalking and oversharing and being too loud…We’re kids – we talk over each other.”
It wasn't just the clamor of overlapping conversations that attracted scrutiny. Millie recalled instances when adult critics termed her “an idiot”, “stupid”, and “a brat” – a daunting experience for any 13-year-old.
“In interviews, I couldn’t help but think of all the comments. So I just remembered to stay silent and speak when I was spoken to, even though I was dying to join in. I just felt it wasn’t my turn,” she revealed.
Her early experience with fame has made Millie fiercely protective of other emerging young talents. Drawing from her personal journey, she emphasized the responsibility of the media and the public. "You cannot speak on children that are underage," the Enola Holmes actor stated, highlighting the impact of negative comments on young minds.
Amid her professional insights, Millie didn't shy away from shedding light on her personal life. Currently engaged to Jake Bongiovi, Jon Bon Jovi’s son, Millie is deep into wedding planning. While many find the process daunting, Millie finds solace in her partner's support. “Jake is very involved,” she mentioned in a September interview, “I’ve never felt alone in it.”
As the curtains gradually fall on Eleven's saga, the world watches eagerly. Millie's journey, filled with ups and downs, stands testament to her resilience and talent. As she transitions from the paranormal streets of Hawkins, fans worldwide anticipate her next compelling chapter.
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