Millie Bobby Brown says plastic surgery rumours left her battling depression

Millie Bobby Brown has opened up about her struggles with depression, revealing how online speculation and headlines about her appearance took a serious toll on her mental health.

The Stranger Things star recalled the experience during an interview with British Vogue, explaining that rumours about cosmetic surgery intensified while she was on the press tour for The Electric State earlier this year.

Brown said she was deeply affected by commentary suggesting she had altered her appearance or looked older than her age, despite repeatedly denying the claims.

“I was depressed for three, four days. I was crying every day,” she said, recalling the reaction she saw online. “ ‘Oh my God, what has she done with her face? Why has she gone blonde? She looks 60 years old.’”

While Brown said she understands the role of journalism and paparazzi culture, she criticised the tone of some coverage.

“I respect journalism. I love reading articles on my favourite people and hearing what they’re up to,” she said. “But don’t, in your headline, slam me at the get-go.”

The actress described such commentary as damaging, particularly for young women navigating the entertainment industry.

“It is so wrong and it is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry and are already questioning everything about it,” she added.

Brown also reflected on the pressure she feels to remain unchanged in the public eye, despite growing up in front of millions of viewers.

“For some reason people can’t seem to grow up with me,” she said. “Instead, they act like I’m supposed to stay frozen in time. And because I don’t, I’m now a target.”

The actress is currently promoting the final season of Stranger Things. The third volume of the show’s concluding season is set to premiere on Netflix on December 31.