When Stranger Things debuted in 2016, it wasn’t just the unique retro horror and adventure that captivated audiences; It was the young and exceptionally talented cast. A notable one was Millie Bobby Brownwho played Eleven, the enigmatic, super-powered girl with a shaved head and an intense connection to the show’s darkest mysteries. Brown’s performance earned him widespread praise and praise, especially for someone so young. So how old was she when she first took on the role that would ultimately propel her to stardom?

Millie Bobby Brown was born on February 19, 2004, so she was only 11 years old when she auditioned for the role of Eleven. Stranger Things began filming in late 2015, meaning Brown was between 11 and 12 years old when she played Eleven in the first season.

Her age added a layer of authenticity to her performance, as her natural wonder and innocence shined through in scenes where Eleven struggled with the complexities of the real world outside the laboratory where she had been raised.

READ ALSO: Millie Bobby Brown adopts the last name ‘Bongiovi’ in new BTS post from Stranger Things season 5

When Stranger Things season 1 aired in July 2016, Brown had just turned 12, but she quickly became one of the series’ most recognizable faces. His youth gave even more weight to the character’s vulnerability and strength, and fans and critics alike noted how impressive his acting skills were for such a young talent. He brought a surprising maturity to Eleven, balancing fear, bravery and tenderness in a character who barely spoke but conveyed so much through expression alone.

As each season progressed, audiences witnessed Brown’s transformation both on and off screen. When the show’s fourth season aired in 2022, she was 18 years old and her portrayal of Eleven had evolved significantly. Now, his character faced even greater challenges, displaying a mix of teenage angst and the trauma of his past, creating a much more complex version of the character fans had first met.

Brown’s growth mirrored Eleven’s journey from a scared girl to a resilient and more confident young woman. The actress’ older age and experience brought new depth to her performance, marking her as one of the most versatile young stars on television today.

Millie Bobby Brown’s age has certainly played a role in shaping her role as Eleven, evolving from a young preteen star to a seasoned actress in the series’ later seasons. Fans have had the unique experience of watching her grow in both character and age, making Eleven’s journey even more compelling. As Stranger Things nears its long-awaited conclusion, audiences are sure to witness the brilliance of Brown’s talent once again as she closes out Eleven’s story.

READ ALSO: Throwback: When Millie Bobby Brown called her then-boyfriend Jake Bongiovi her ‘partner for life’