Millie Bobby Brown: “I Just Don’t Know How to React to People My Own Age”

Millie Bobby Brown has opened up about one of the unexpected consequences of growing up in the spotlight, revealing that her unconventional childhood has left her struggling to connect with people her own age.

Speaking on the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast, the actress admitted that spending most of her formative years on film sets has made social interactions with her peers feel unfamiliar even today.

“I just don’t know how to react sometimes to people my own age. I have a harder time. Because I grew up with primarily men on crews, let’s change that.”

Brown was only 11 years old when she was cast as Eleven in Stranger Things. According to the actress, most of the people she interacted with every day on set were “men over 40 years old.” As a result, her childhood was shaped by conversations and experiences that differed greatly from those of other children her age.

“And so I heard a lot of adult talk growing up. I didn’t really talk about the things you’re meant to talk about as a kid. Because you hear, ‘Where’s the grip? Let’s grab a ladder,’ you know? And so that’s your whole conversation.”

The Damsel star explained that she is now fluent in the technical language of filmmaking and can comfortably discuss camera lenses, shot compositions, and production details. However, she finds it much more difficult to engage in conversations that are typical among people in their twenties, such as favorite bars, restaurants, or everyday social activities.

Brown also described herself as naturally introverted but credited her husband, Jake Bongiovi, for encouraging her to become more outgoing. Calling him a “social butterfly,” she said he has helped her embrace new social experiences.

“When I met him, I really tried to lean more into that. So, I’m in my social era.”

Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi began dating in 2021 before marrying three years later. In 2025, the couple announced that they had welcomed their first child, a daughter, through adoption, marking a new chapter in their family life.

Born in 2004, Millie Bobby Brown has established herself as one of Hollywood’s most successful young stars. Her breakthrough performance as Eleven in Stranger Things earned widespread critical acclaim and transformed her into a global household name. The series not only brought her numerous award nominations but also paved the way for opportunities across film, fashion, and business.

Following the success of Stranger Things, Brown continued to expand her career with the Enola Holmes franchise, where she served both as the lead actress and a producer. She has also starred in major productions including Damsel and The Electric State, demonstrating her ambition to build a career beyond the image of a child star.

Outside of acting, Brown successfully ventured into entrepreneurship by launching her beauty brand, Florence by Mills. Designed with younger consumers in mind, the brand has grown internationally and become one of her most successful business ventures, further strengthening her influence beyond the entertainment industry.

Despite her remarkable achievements, Brown has also faced intense public scrutiny throughout her career. Over the years, she has repeatedly spoken out against online criticism targeting her appearance, fashion choices, and personal life. The actress has argued that growing up under constant public attention has taken a toll on her mental well-being and has urged both the media and social media users to treat young performers with greater empathy and respect.

Her relationship with Jake Bongiovi has likewise attracted significant attention, particularly because the couple chose to marry at a relatively young age. Nevertheless, they have consistently emphasized that they received strong support from both families and have refused to let public opinion interfere with their private lives. In interviews and on social media, Brown has often described her husband as someone who helps her maintain balance after spending much of her life working in the demanding entertainment industry.

Brown’s latest remarks offer a rare glimpse into the hidden realities of growing up as a child star. Behind the success and fame lies a childhood that was far removed from ordinary teenage experiences, where conversations about school, friendships, and youthful interests were replaced by the routines of professional film production. Now at 22, the actress says she is still learning how to navigate everyday social interactions and embrace the kind of experiences many people her age have taken for granted.