Millie Bobby Brown slams media criticism for her looks: ‘This is bullying’

Actress Millie Bobby Brown is pushing back against media scrutiny of her appearance, calling out what she describes as “bullying” disguised as journalism.

In a March 3 Instagram video, the “Stranger Things” star denounced tabloid headlines mocking her looks, including one suggesting she underwent a “mommy makeover” and insisting she appears far older than her age of 21.

Ms. Brown expressed frustration with public expectations that she remain frozen in time, saying, “People can’t seem to grow with me.”

The issue stemmed, in part, from British comedian Matt Lucas, who shared a photo of Ms. Brown on social media with the caption, “no but yeah but,” a catchphrase of his “Little Britain” character Vicky Pollard.

The Daily Mail subsequently ran an article interpreting the post as a “savage swipe” at Ms. Brown, driving further criticism of her look on social media and other forums.

Ms. Brown took issue with the piece, responding in her video: “The fact that adult writers are spending their time dissecting my face, my body, my choices — it’s disturbing.”

For his part, Mr. Lucas quickly issued an apology on his social media platforms.

I thought you looked terrific and was mortified when the press wrote that I ’slammed’ you,” he said in a statement.

He explained that he made the comparison simply because of Ms. Brown’s blond hair and pink top, which reminded him of the character Vicky Pollard.

“I would not have posted it if I had thought it would upset you, but I realize it has, and for that, I apologize,” he posted.

Ms. Brown’s response has ignited a broader conversation about the media’s treatment of young women in Hollywood.

“We always talk about supporting and uplifting young women, but when the time comes, it seems easier to tear them down for clicks,” she said. As for her critics, Ms. Brown made her stance clear: “I refuse to apologize for growing up.”