Alyson Stoner Was a Disney Child Star. Now, They’re Advocating for the Next Generation of Actors (Exclusive)

Alyson Stoner Shares Insight on Early Stardom and Advocacy Journey

In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Alyson Stoner delves into their experiences as a former child star and their transition into advocating for the next generation of actors. Stoner, known for their roles in Disney Channel favourites like Camp Rock and Phineas and Ferb, reflects on their journey in the newly released memoir ‘Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything’.

From their debut at just 9 years old in Missy Elliott’s iconic music video “Work It,” Stoner quickly rose to fame, navigating the challenges of being in the spotlight from a young age. The memoir sheds light on the emotional hurdles Stoner faced, including encounters with stalkers, a kidnapping attempt, and an eating disorder that led them to rehab in 2011.

According to Stoner, the memoir serves as a platform to spark important conversations about the entertainment industry and mental wellbeing. As a certified mental health coordinator and co-founder of the wellness platform Movement Genius, Stoner emphasises the importance of holistic approaches to mental health that consider emotional and physical well-being.

Stoner’s dedication to advocating for mental well-being is evident in their work with Movement Genius, a digital platform designed to improve emotional and physical health through movement. By incorporating the body and nervous system into mental health discussions, Stoner aims to provide tools that address stress, emotion, and trauma stored in the body.

Furthermore, Stoner’s advocacy extends to supporting child actors and promoting artist well-being in the industry. Through initiatives like the Artist Wellbeing Essentials toolkit, Stoner collaborates with experts and educators to guide parents and young talents entering the entertainment field, with a focus on creating healthier on-set environments.

Addressing the evolving landscape of child stardom and digital influence, Stoner highlights the lack of protections and resources available for children in the entertainment industry. They stress the need for preventative education, industrial policies, and legislation to safeguard young performers in an environment where boundaries between personal and professional life can blur.

As Stoner continues to share their story and raise awareness about the challenges faced by child actors, they hope to inspire positive change in the industry. By recounting their lived experiences in ‘Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything’, Stoner aims to prompt meaningful discussions on societal issues and the impact of early stardom.

In conclusion, Alyson Stoner’s journey from child star to mental health advocate serves as a testament to resilience and growth. Through their memoir and advocacy work, Stoner embodies a commitment to transparency, empowerment, and holistic well-being in the entertainment industry. ‘Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything’ is now available for those interested in exploring Stoner’s impactful story and insights into the industry.

Overall, Alyson Stoner’s story sheds light on the complexities of fame, mental health, and advocacy, offering valuable lessons for both aspiring actors and industry professionals alike.