Hilary Duff Reflects on the Challenges of Growing Up as a Child Star

At the TIME100 Summit in Manhattan, Hilary Duff discussed her experiences as a child star, particularly in light of recent documentaries that have shed light on the darker aspects of growing up in the entertainment industry. When asked by Time executive editor Dan Macsai about the influence of documentaries such as “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” and “Framing Britney Spears,” Duff expressed sadness over the revelations they contain. She acknowledged the challenges faced by many child stars, stating, “I feel very grateful that I wasn’t put in too many positions that left battle wounds on me.”

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Duff, who began her career at the age of nine, reflected on the unique pressures that accompanied her early success. She noted that while she had many positive experiences, her upbringing was marked by the responsibilities of adult life. “I was expected to show up and be professional through exhaustion or sickness or whatever,” she explained. This early exposure to adult expectations has significantly shaped her identity.

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The 2024 docuseries “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” has brought to light allegations of abuse, sexism, and racism involving child actors, particularly those associated with former Nickelodeon showrunner Dan Schneider. Schneider has since sued the producers of the series for defamation, labeling it a “hit job.” Similarly, the 2021 documentary “Framing Britney Spears” played a crucial role in raising awareness about the struggles faced by Britney Spears, contributing to the #FreeBritney movement. These documentaries have sparked discussions about the exploitation and mistreatment of child stars in the entertainment industry.

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Now at 38, Duff feels she is finally taking control of her life and career. “I’m the adult in the room. Finally!” she stated, emphasizing her newfound agency in making confident decisions. This shift comes as she prepares for her upcoming “The Lucky Me Tour,” which is set to begin in June and run through February 2027. Duff’s reflections highlight the long-lasting impact of her childhood experiences in the industry, as well as her journey toward self-empowerment.

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While Duff's experiences have been relatively positive compared to those highlighted in recent documentaries, her comments underscore a broader concern regarding the treatment of child actors. Critics argue that the entertainment industry has historically failed to protect young talent, leading to lasting psychological and emotional consequences. The narratives presented in documentaries like “Quiet on Set” and “Framing Britney Spears” serve as a call for reform and greater accountability within the industry.

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• “I feel very grateful that I wasn’t put in too many positions that left battle wounds on me.” — Hilary Duff, Actress and Singer

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Duff's reflections and the discussions surrounding child stardom highlight the need for ongoing dialogue about the welfare of young performers in the entertainment industry.

Variety Magazine