Demi Lovato’s journey from child star to adult artist is documented in her new film Child Star, now streaming on Hulu and Disney+. The documentary, Lovato’s directorial debut, features conversations with fellow former child stars, shedding light on the challenges of growing up in the spotlight. Here are six crucial takeaways:
- Bullying in School: Lovato faced severe bullying during her school years, including harassment and a petition encouraging her to take her own life. These experiences fueled her drive to pursue her dreams.
- Difficult Work Relationships: Lovato’s co-stars shared their fears regarding her temper on set. Raven-Symoné and Alyson Stoner revealed that Lovato’s erratic behavior created an atmosphere of tension, affecting their working relationships.
- Mental Health Struggles: Both Lovato and Stoner battled mental health issues and eating disorders exacerbated by industry pressures. Lovato shared her experiences with depression, undiagnosed bipolar disorder, and her struggles with body image.
- Substance Abuse at a Young Age: Lovato, Christina Ricci, and Drew Barrymore discussed their early exposure to drugs and alcohol, revealing how they turned to substances as coping mechanisms amid chaotic childhoods.
- Siwa’s Nickelodeon Experience: Jojo Siwa recounted being blacklisted by Nickelodeon after coming out. She revealed how the network pressured her to reassure retailers about her mental state following her announcement.
- No Regrets Philosophy: In a reflective moment, Lovato expressed that she wouldn’t change anything about her career, emphasizing that her past choices led her to her current place in life.
Child Star offers a candid look at the complexities of fame from a young age, combining personal stories with broader themes of resilience and healing.
