Demi Lovato’s New Documentary ‘Child Star’ Sheds Light on the Struggles of Early Fame
In the new Hulu documentary “Child Star”, co-directed by Demi Lovato, former child stars, including JoJo Siwa, reflect on the emotional and psychological toll of growing up in the public eye. Lovato, who also appears in the film, opens up about the “explosive” moments of their own career as a child actress and singer, and how it negatively impacted their mental health.
Demi Lovato’s Dark Disney Days
Lovato discusses their troubled time as a Disney Channel star, particularly during the late 2000s when they skyrocketed to fame. In the documentary, Lovato recalls how their fame spiraled into a series of mental health crises, including a now-infamous incident in 2010 when, while on tour with the Jonas Brothers, they physically assaulted their former backup dancer Alex Welch. The altercation, which took place on a plane, led to Lovato checking into rehab. This difficult period was later chronicled in their 2012 documentary “Demi Lovato: Stay Strong”, which detailed their struggles with substance abuse, depression, and the toll early fame had taken on them.
During their hospitalization, Lovato experienced three strokes and a heart attack, a terrifying chapter in their life that further underlined the immense pressure they faced as a young star.
JoJo Siwa on the Challenges of Fame as a Child Star
While JoJo Siwa is best known for her energetic personality and colorful brand, the documentary also delves into the pressures she faced growing up in the spotlight. Siwa reflects on how early fame can be both a blessing and a curse, particularly when it comes to maintaining mental health and a sense of normalcy. Siwa’s candid interviews add depth to “Child Star”, as she, along with other young performers, highlights the challenges of navigating fame at a young age.
What Really Happened During Demi Lovato’s Early Fame?
Lovato uses the documentary to reflect on the root causes of their struggles during their time with Disney. They explain how the pressures of maintaining a perfect public image, while dealing with personal insecurities and growing up too fast, contributed to their downward spiral. “Child Star” shows Lovato’s journey from being a troubled teen star to an advocate for mental health, shedding light on the dark side of childhood stardom.
Streaming Now on Hulu and Disney+
“Child Star”, co-directed by Demi Lovato, is now available to stream on Hulu and Disney+. The documentary offers a raw and emotional look into the lives of young celebrities, including Lovato and JoJo Siwa, as they navigate the highs and lows of growing up in the public eye.