Millie Bobby Brown Defends Her Changing Accent Amid Backlash
Millie Bobby Brown has found herself in the spotlight once again, this time regarding the criticism she’s faced for her shifting accents. While featured on the SmartLess podcast, the actress known for her role in Stranger Things addressed the conversations surrounding her alternating British and American accents.
Understanding the ‘Accent-Gate’
Brown referred to the controversy as “accent-gate,”expressing her frustration with how widely discussed the issue became. “That was such a huge thing for a minute,” she remarked. “It was everywhere. Everyone was talking about my accent, and they had a real problem with it. And I was like, ‘Guys, I’m married to an American,'” she added, noting her marriage to Jake Bongiovi in May 2024.
Influence of Surrounding Accents
With Bongiovi’s family predominantly speaking with American accents, Brown naturally gravitates towards that way of speaking when with them. “When I’m around his family, I immediately switch to an American accent. But then I was just in England, and the second I hear my mom and dad’s accents, I switch right back,” she explained.
The Art of Adaptation
Brown likened her accent changes to her craft as an actress, stating, “You want me to play these characters, but you expect me not to morph into people. What I hear is what I do. It’s all part of it.” This statement reinforces her belief that as a performer, adapting to her environment is a natural part of her role.
Repeated Responses to Criticism
This isn’t the first time Brown has confronted the scrutiny over her accent. In a previous interview with internet personality Max Balegde, she reiterated, “I’m an actor. I grew up in the public eye. I grew up in America. When I come to set, I adapt. I want to mimic other people!”
In addition, following a segment on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon where viewers noted her fluctuating dialect, Brown explained, “I can’t help it when I’m around my fiancé or people like Jimmy Fallon, who have a very American accent. I want to replicate it!” She also apologized for any offense caused, asserting, “I’m trying my best! I’m trying my best.”
Addressing Bullying and Body Image Criticism
Beyond the accent discussions, Brown has been vocal about her experiences with online harassment regarding her appearance during the press tour for her new movie, The Electric State. She described these comments as “bullying” and expressed her feelings on social media in a heartfelt three-minute video. In this message, she reflected, “I grew up in front of the world, and for some reason people can’t seem to grow up with me. Instead, they act like I’m supposed to stay frozen in time.”
Brown emphasized a troubling hypocrisy she perceives in society: “We always talk about supporting and uplifting young women, but when it comes down to it, it seems a lot easier to just tear them down for clicks.”