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Demi Lovato is set to release her highly anticipated documentary, Child Star. This eye-opening film delves into the trials and tribulations of early fame through the eyes of several former child stars. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming release.
What is Child Star about?
Child Star explores the complex world of early stardom, highlighting the impact it has on young celebrities. The documentary features interviews with prominent figures like Drew Barrymore, Christina Ricci, JoJo Siwa, and Kenan Thompson. Each shares their unique experiences of navigating fame at a young age and the long-lasting effects it has had on their lives. Lovato, who has her own tumultuous journey from a child star on Barney & Friends to a music icon, leads this candid exploration.
Demi Lovato’s life, marked by soaring successes and devastating lows, is a central focus of Child Star. From her breakout role on Barney & Friends to her multiple Billboard top 10 albums, Lovato’s career has been a rollercoaster. The film also addresses her personal struggles, including a near-fatal overdose in 2018, and her ongoing battles with eating disorders and mental health. Lovato’s aim with this documentary is to understand the motivations behind her entry into the industry and to shed light on the broader implications of early fame.
Unlike other documentaries, such as ID’s Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV, which focuses on specific individuals or companies, Child Star takes a more comprehensive approach. Co-director Nicola Marsh emphasizes that the film is “not an exposé, but it is quite blunt.” The documentary offers a broad perspective on the systemic issues faced by child stars, including the lack of support systems and the pressures of early fame, without placing blame on any one entity.
Who are some of the key figures featured in the documentary?
Child Star offers an intimate and multifaceted exploration of the lives of several former child celebrities, each of whom has navigated the tumultuous waters of early fame. Central to the documentary is Demi Lovato, who, as both the executive producer and a participant, provides a deeply personal lens into the challenges faced by child stars.
Joining Lovato are some of the most recognizable figures from the world of child stardom. Drew Barrymore, who became a household name with her role in E.T. at just seven years old, shares her harrowing experiences of growing up in Hollywood. Barrymore’s candid reflections on her early exposure to the darker side of fame, including partying at a shockingly young age, provide a sobering perspective on the pressures of child stardom.
Christina Ricci, known for her breakout role in The Addams Family and a career that began at a similarly young age, contributes her story to the documentary. Ricci’s involvement offers insight into the unique struggles faced by child actors who grew up in the spotlight, adding depth to the exploration of how early fame impacts personal development.
JoJo Siwa, a newer generation child star who gained fame through “Dance Moms” and her vibrant persona, provides a contrasting view. Despite her generally positive experience, Siwa discusses the challenges she faced, including the backlash she encountered after coming out as queer and the impact it had on her career.
Kenan Thompson, who rose to fame on Nickelodeon’s All That, offers a perspective on the financial and personal challenges that can accompany early success. Thompson’s candid discussion about being cheated out of his earnings as a teenager sheds light on the often-overlooked financial exploitation that can occur in the entertainment industry.
Raven-Symoné, who gained fame with That’s So Raven, and Alyson Stoner, known for her roles in Disney’s Camp Rock and other projects, also feature prominently. Their interviews delve into the emotional toll of being a child star and the struggles they faced in maintaining their mental health and self-image under the intense scrutiny of the public eye.
Where to watch Child Star in Australia
Child Star is set to premiere in Australia on September 17! The Hulu show will be available on Disney+ for Aussie audiences.
Stream Child Star on Disney Plus from $13.99/mth. SUBSCRIBE NOW.
