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‘Stranger Things’ Star Millie Bobby Brown Turns 16, Laments ‘Sexualization’ And ‘Insults’

   DailyWire.com
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 19: Millie Bobby Brown attends the 26th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at The Shrine Auditorium on January 19, 2020 in Los Angeles, California.
(Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

Actress Millie Bobby Brown, who plays Eleven on Netflix’s hit show “Stranger Things,” turned 16 on Thursday. In a lengthy post to Instagram, the young actress lamented the “sexualization” and “insults” she has endured over the past few years while hoping that a change can happen for the next generation.

“16 has felt like a long time coming,” began Brown. “I feel like change needs to happen for not only this generation but the next. Our world needs kindness and support in order for us children to grow and succeed.”

“The last few years haven’t been easy, I’ll admit that,” she continued. “There are moments I get frustrated from the inaccuracy, inappropriate comments, sexualization, and unnecessary insults that ultimately have resulted in pain and insecurity for me. But not ever will I be defeated. I’ll continue doing what I love and spreading the message in order to make change.”

The Instagram post included a montage video of Brown throughout the years intercut with various media clips and Twitter hot takes that were critical of her.

“Let’s focus on what needs changing, and I hope this video informs you on the things that go on behind the scenes of the headlines and flashing lights. Don’t worry, I’ll always find a way to smile,” she concluded.

View this post on Instagram

16 has felt like a long time coming. i feel like change needs to happen for not only this generation but the next. our world needs kindness and support in order for us children to grow and succeed. the last few years haven't been easy, I'll admit that. there are moments i get frustrated from the inaccuracy, inappropriate comments, sexualization, and unnecessary insults that ultimately have resulted in pain and insecurity for me. but not ever will i be defeated. ill continue doing what i love and spreading the message in order to make change. let's focus on what needs changing and I hope this video informs you on the things that go on behind the scenes of the headlines and flashing lights. dont worry I'll always find a way to smile 😉 leggo 16 ♡.

A post shared by mills (@milliebobbybrown) on

Millie Bobby Brown has been subject to bizarre press coverage at times throughout her youth. At age 14, for instance, outlets like People and Page Six felt it somehow necessary and newsworthy to report on her breaking up with her boyfriend at the time, as if the relationships of 14-year-olds deserved any level of attention.

“Millie Bobby Brown Splits With Singer Boyfriend,” announced Page Six. “Millie Bobby Brown and Jacob Sartorius Split After Seven Months of Dating,” lamented US Magazine. “Millie Bobby Brown and Jacob Sartorius Break Up After 7 Months of Dating,” decried People. “Millie Bobby Brown just broke up with her boyfriend in the most mature way possible,” wrote The Mercury News.

As reported by People, Millie Bobby Brown faced a scolding on social media when someone told her to “act your age” when she posted a photo of herself in a form-fitting dress. “[I know] everyone on my last pic wants me to ‘act my age,’ but, quite frankly, it’s my Instagram and if I choose to post that picture and you don’t like it… scroll past it,” she said in response.

Millie Bobby Brown’s birthday post was largely met with positive responses from her fans and followers.

“Happy bday, Millie. This year is gonna be your year. AGAIN. Here’s to 16 years old!” wrote Brown’s “Stranger Things” co-star Noah Schnapp. 

“I love you, Millie, happy birthday baby girl,” wrote Bella Hadid.

“You’re showing tremendous poise in this business that has such built-in scrutiny! Enjoy every facet of being 16. Trust me, it doesn’t stop even when you’re 35 like me. Ok, I’m NOT 35. But hang in there sweetie,” wrote actress Octavia Spencer.

“Send you so much love, angel!! Happy Birthdayyy!! Keep thriving and being exactly who you need to be,” wrote singer Lauren Jauregui.

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