Enjoying Global Success at Netflix, Millie Bobby Brown Still Reminisces Her Early Days Including the 'NCIS' Role

Published 03/24/2025, 12:48 AM EDT

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Millie Bobby Brown has solidified her reign as the undisputed queen of Netflix, captivating audiences with her powerful performances and undeniable screen presence. From her groundbreaking portrayal of Eleven in Stranger Things to leading blockbuster films like Enola Holmes, Brown has established herself as a force in the entertainment industry. With her projects dominating streaming charts and her influence extending beyond acting into entrepreneurship and philanthropy, she continues to command attention and admiration, proving that she has been at it since day one. 

The actress, now standing atop her nth big Netflix release, looked back from atop and openly reflected on her humble beginnings, including her lesser-known role on NCIS and more.

The road to Netflix royalty was filled with obstacles for Millie Bobby Brown

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On the SmartLess podcast, Millie Bobby Brown was asked how she became so comfortable in front of the camera, especially at such a young age. Reflecting on her early career, Brown stated, “I was kind of just doing these bit roles but like still had so much fun.” She recalled making guest appearances on television shows such as NCIS and Modern Family, where she gained valuable experience despite having minor parts. These early roles, she explained, allowed her to develop confidence and adaptability in front of the camera.

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Millie Bobby Brown also shared a pivotal moment in her journey when a casting director rejected her for being "too matured", deeming her unfit to become an actress. While setbacks were discouraging, she acknowledged that such experiences ultimately worked in her favor. The industry’s hesitation to place her in conventional child roles paved the way for her to land the part of Eleven in Stranger Things, a character that required both emotional depth and a commanding screen presence.

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Despite early setbacks and industry rejections, Millie Bobby Brown defied Hollywood’s expectations, turning obstacles into stepping stones and reaping the rewards today.

Rising above the rest, Millie Bobby Brown rewrote the child star narrative

Hollywood’s child star narrative is often one of fleeting fame, where young actors struggle to transition into long-term success. Many face typecasting, industry burnout, or a loss of opportunities as they grow older. Millie Bobby Brown, however, defied these expectations through a combination of talent, strategic career choices, and an unwavering sense of self. From the beginning, Brown took on roles that demanded emotional depth, such as Eleven in Stranger Things, where her ability to convey intense emotions with minimal dialogue set her apart.

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Beyond acting, Millie Bobby Brown leveraged her platform in ways that many young stars do not. She built an empire with her own beauty brand, Florence by Mills, proving she was more than just a performer. She carefully selected projects like Enola Holmes, which showcased her versatility while also giving her producer credit at a young age. The young actress' ability to evolve, take control of her career, and break the mold of the typical child star has ensured that she is not just a momentary sensation but a lasting Hollywood figure.

A Year Before 'Stranger Things,' 'Grey’s Anatomy' Pushed Millie Bobby Brown As Hollywood’s Next Big Thing

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Did you ever catch Millie Bobby Brown in Modern Family or NCIS before she became a global sensation? Let us know!

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Iffat Siddiqui

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Iffat is a versatile wordsmith with 2 years of experience- a creative virtuoso who seamlessly fuses precision with adaptability to master any content. Being a budding writer, she wields her wit and craft with precision, ensuring every sentence carries a touch of intrigue and a spark of vitality. With her talent to hooking the audience to her opinionated writing, spinning theories like an Agatha Christie trying to piece the pieces of a puzzle together.

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