Millie Bobby Brown, known for her role in Stranger Things, faced significant controversy when she defended Joe Goldberg, the protagonist of the Netflix show You. Her initial remarks praising Joe’s feelings for the female lead sparked a heated debate about the portrayal of unhealthy relationships on screen and the fine line between love and obsession.
Millie’s Unexpected Support for Joe Goldberg:
Millie Bobby Brown took to her Instagram story to express her support for Joe Goldberg’s character, stating, “He’s not creepy, he’s in love with her, and it’s okay.” Her defense of Joe’s actions as being motivated by love rather than stalking garnered diverse reactions from fans and critics.
The Backlash and Concerns Raised:
Millie’s perspective received backlash as some social media users questioned the message of romanticizing Joe’s questionable behavior. Critics argued that glorifying his stalking and violent tendencies could send the wrong message, especially to younger audiences. Twitter was abuzz with opposing opinions, and users even urged actor Penn Badgley, who plays Joe, to address the issue.
Contrasting Opinions on Social Media:
Amid the controversy, Twitter users expressed contrasting opinions. Some users called out Millie Bobby Brown’s viewpoint, requesting her to recognize Joe’s behavior as that of a creepy stalker. Others emphasized that her defense of Joe echoed a misguided understanding of love, particularly among younger individuals.
A Change in Perspective:
Millie Bobby Brown later revisited her opinion after watching the complete first season of You. She admitted her initial haste in forming an analysis and acknowledged that Joe’s actions indeed aligned with the definition of a stalker. In a more reflective tone, she shared, “I just watched episode ten; he’s most definitely a stalker.” She humbly accepted her mistake and expressed excitement for the upcoming season.
Millie Bobby Brown’s defense of Joe Goldberg’s character in You triggered intense discussions about the portrayal of unhealthy relationships in media. The controversy served as a learning experience, emphasizing the importance of critical analysis and responsible commentary, especially when addressing complex and sensitive themes. Millie’s subsequent change in perspective demonstrated her willingness to reflect and evolve in response to public feedback.