Millie Bobby Brown Recalls Feeling ‘Broken’ After Missing Out on Role Opposite Hugh Jackman as a Young Actor

Millie Bobby Brown, the acclaimed actress known for her role in Netflix’s global hit “Stranger Things,” recently opened up about a significant audition experience she had when she was still a young girl. Speaking on the July 1 episode of Entertainment Weekly’s show “Lie vs Lie” alongside her co-star Louis Partridge, the 22-year-old disclosed that she auditioned for a role in the film “Logan” at the tender age of 11 or 12, with none other than Hugh Jackman.

During the segment, the conversation shifted to auditions, and Brown recalled the moment with a mix of nostalgia and regret. She mentioned feeling quite “broken” after the audition, believing that there were other actors who better fit the role, which ultimately went to 11-year-old Dafne Keen. Keen portrayed the character X-23 in the 2017 film, a part for which many, including Brown, had hoped to audition.

Partridge, 23, subsequently expressed his belief that her recounting of the audition was genuine, given the circumstances of the casting for the film. Brown confirmed that she was indeed trying to steer Partridge off course by referring to the film as one of “the Wolverine movies,” which added a playful twist to their discussion and testimony of her early experiences in the industry.

The audition for “Logan” serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the acting profession, particularly for young talent trying to break into Hollywood. Despite her disappointment during that audition, Brown’s eventual success as Eleven in “Stranger Things” has cemented her status as one of the industry’s brightest stars. Her character in the series, a girl with psychokinetic abilities, resonated with audiences worldwide, leading to numerous accolades over five seasons.

Reflecting on her time with “Stranger Things,” Brown marked the conclusion of filming in December 2024 through an emotional Instagram post. She shared a variety of photos encapsulating her years on the show, alongside a heartfelt video of her farewell speech, which she likened to a graduation. The actress expressed her bittersweet feelings about leaving the set, stating, “Isn’t graduation supposed to bring relief? Like you’re glad to leave behind the teachers and classmates. Not me.”

In those poignant moments, Brown articulated her deep affection for her co-stars and the crew, stating that she would forever cherish the memories created during their time together. Her heartfelt message underscored the strong bonds they formed, suggesting that for her, “Stranger Things” was more than just a job—it was a significant chapter in her life.

While Brown faced challenges early on, her career has burgeoned, with roles in other notable projects, such as “Enola Holmes,” “Damsel,” and “Godzilla: King of the Monsters.” This successful trajectory showcases her versatility as an actress and her ability to navigate various genres within the film industry.

As Brown continues to evolve in her career, she remains a role model for many young actors aiming to make their mark in Hollywood. Her candid sharing of past experiences, including the audition for “Logan,” highlights the persistence vital for success in a notoriously challenging field.

In the end, Millie Bobby Brown’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that setbacks can often lead to greater opportunities. Her story resonates with both aspiring actors and fans alike, illustrating that every experience—from triumphs to disappointments—contributes to the journey of growth and achievement in showbiz.