The Toddler-to-Trainwreck Industrial Complex | Alyson Stoner

TW: SV, ED, Abuse. For the folks who click on Where Are They Now articles, I am here. We are here. This is your first time hearing my story, but it is our millionth time asking you to listen. Together we can change the narrative and help prevent another child from falling victim to the toddler-to-trainwreck pipeline. No matter what has happened to you, there is a way to reconnect with yourself and reclaim your story, your voice, and your authority as your own. That is what I am doing today and I’m thankful for all the thoughtful discussion and support. And now you know…
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About Alyson Stoner:
Alyson Stoner is a multi-hyphenate known for her on-screen acting work in franchises such as Step Up and Camp Rock to dancing with the likes of Missy Elliot and Eminem and now her original digital content across all her platforms. Each week on KZbin she releases new episodes of ALchemy - quick, creative and inspiring videos for personal transformation, and Simplexity, her podcast that is ANYTHING but small talk. Get ready to be lifted, empowered and surprised. Be sure to like and subscribe!

[@TheRealAlysonStoner]

Thank you for your support! We’re organizing a convo around the changes we want to see take place. Follow my IG to stay updated. ❤️ instagram.com/alysonstoner

[@dianakryukova9112]

You are truly outstanding. Thank you for sharing your story and shedding light on these issues while also offering solutions. This was articulate and insightful

[@shayshayu244]

💕🙏🏽

[@teaganbaker2562]

❤️❤️

[@sgfitz09]

God bless you and the work you are doing. You are a force to be reckoned with.

[@ashleyartsco]

Thank you for speaking up about your experience. This was so well spoken.

[@elzbthlncstr]

The terrifying thing is that this is happening now on KZbin with family vloggers and parents exploiting their own kids to millions of viewers to make them rich. These kids don’t even get a home life because their home life is plastered on the internet. This is only getting worse

[@twebster179]

That's not every channel though. LaGuardia Cross, for instance.

[@elzbthlncstr]

@@twebster179 I didn't say there weren't exceptions, however the problem is so bad with *most* family vlogging channels that I think I'm allowed to use generalizations.

[@Kimberly-gj8ho]

Family channels should be banned for so many reasons.

[@emma5764]

exactly what i was thinking. and they're getting more and more popular. the kids don't even get the money and it's not like they can even go home and escape because at home is where the camera is. it's so messed up

[@pavelinaodkonjsk3907]

Makes me so sad... these parents unfortunately are sick :/

[@kylietannenbaum530]

And no child labor laws for KZbin family’s and social media childern

[@swestphal117]

KZbinrs who use their children for money should be obligated to give some of that money for their kids. It’s regulated for other child labor.

[@skatergirl8019]

YES!!! I think we will see the repercussions for this in the coming years.

[@christmastiger]

We need regulations in place for that stuff STAT because these children are basically living on set 24/7 and never know if intimate moments with their family are genuine or acted for the cameras, they are given toys/money for performing tasks on camera that warps their view of rewards, youtubers even go out of their way to have children JUST so they can profit off of the attention it gets them. There's so much, it's SO bad and I worry about what is going to happen to these kids when they grow up.

[@Artemisdianaxxx]

This is my problem with family vlogging. Also like how can I believe you would stop filming your children if they wanted when they clearly lead to most of your income

[@MeganSaidThis]

So many issues with family vlogging and kids these kids will most likely have such a rude awakening as they enter adulthood moreso than an average kid. Kids are used to being the center of attention, I know I struggled entering adulthood once I no longer was a cute little girl anymore and these kids really are used to being stars more than average kids...

[@ancelinee3169]

I'll never forget when she was on Ellen talking about self-healing/practicing minimalism, and at the end of the interview she was gifted with a giant flat screen TV. It seemed so tone deaf, toxic, and reflective of the overall industry. Now I suspect that when she smiled and graciously said thank you what we were actually witnessing was smiling girl #437.

[@ke5695]

Is there a KZbin vid of this Ellen episode ?

[@jmsl910]

for real? omg. that is despicable. i thought ellen was more woke than that

[@whylambsy]

@@jmsl910 nah ellen is literal garbage

[@avateraangshoe5025]

Ellen most likely planned to just give the t.v for giving sake

[@erinhoeppner5114]

I saw that episode and thought the same thing, like, “was Ellen even listening to her at all?!” Ugh 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@bkzl]

SHE'S ONLY 27?!! She looks the age but the way her career has been set out makes her seem so much older. Just thinking at one point we could've been at school together blows my mind

[@cbuz06]

Yea she's had alot of experience clearly good & bad. She's very mature & well spoken. I still remember first time seeing her in Missy's video

[@DylanRomanov]

I’m 28 me I always thought she was way younger than me , I remember her in Mikes super short show lol

[@haleyhart8540]

I’m 30 and always had the impression she was way younger…like maybe 24/25

[@Asterly1]

Same!

[@jennakingmusic_]

Same I’m also 27. I always thought she was a little older than me. She was working at such a young age.

[@MeowMeow-sy2mi]

Not only is there no reason to graphically portray rape scenes in media, there's absolutely NO reason it needs to be done with children acting it out.

[@BinaBinaBee]

THIS!

[@mzelk995]

exactly!!!!!

[@isabelaguirre1]

I saw a scene like this once and at the end there was a note that the child actress was hypnotized (idk if that's the right word) to "forget" the rape scene. I thought, that should have never been done in the first place. Disgusting.

[@shponglechunch]

I feel this way about sex in movies as well in general. It's just strange, so many better ways to portray an experience than literally showing it happening.

[@racheldeschaine]

Yes so true

[@Nothinghumnisalien2me]

This made me think of Demi Lovato’s story about being sexually assaulted on set at 15 and everyone sweeping it under the rug. It’s disappointing as an adult to know that the Disney Channel that raised you didn’t take care of the kids we loved.

[@camilamedeiros5052]

@@isaefuru6454 she said it was with someone who she always saw on set at her documentary

[@sus90210]

@@isaefuru6454 It was an other actor.

[@isaefuru6454]

@@camilamedeiros5052 oh okay I understand, it was actually the wording that confused me I took it to literally !

[@isaefuru6454]

@@sus90210 does anyone know who it is? Or has anyone figured out or exposed?

[@isaefuru6454]

@@alyupde9337 I have and honestly I can't stomach it, hearing her tell the story about her having to perform being raped was too much for me. I may seem like an extremist when I say this but I think the world would be fine if child actors weren't used like at all lol. It's unnecessary, do we really Need it?? I could live without it. Just let people act, sing, and dance when they're 18 and call it a day. The stuff that your exposed to, and happens to you as a Child affects your brain in a more severe way. Then If there's negative side effects they're going to manifest into adulthood and then your screwed. Once your over age 25 it becomes much much harder to get rid of bad habits and negative effects from trauma and to develop good healthy habits. It's not worth it to to damage children before adulthood how much of a chance do they have at living a happy and productive life after that?? We don't need child actor, 9 times out of 10 there's not much good that comes from it.

[@Irisjmoton89]

My mother saved me from this. A talent agent wanted me to child model and I was 2. My dad wanted me to do it (My parents weren't together anymore). They met up and the guy was in a room alone and only 1 chair. He told my parents he needed to be left completely alone with me first and she said no and walked out. My dad was pissed apparently. She could clearly see what it was and I would never risk my child's safety either.

[@momonaturale]

Absolutely disgusting

[@edenredeemed]

Something similar happy with my sister and I. I was pretty upset too when my mom didn't take us back but now that I'm older i understand.

[@rachelhaynes8999]

Woww...that makes me sick, glad you're okay.

[@hopeking37]

I hope u realize how gross it is that ur dad was ok with that

[@essennagerry]

@@hopeking37 He might've been blinded by the idea of getting lots of money out of his child star, and didn't even see the danger/probable intent in that

[@wordzmyth]

Child stars need a union, because every child enters this system innocently and so is vulnerable to the ways they will be taken advantage of

[@liverbirdxoxo1984]

Problem is when your a child unless you're told, you've know way of knowing... adults won't tell you, that would hit their profit n exploitation of you

[@marianapando5581]

This video epitomizes the phrase “be the person you needed when you were younger”

[@manuterrors]

wow, yes

[@whatwouldgordonramsaydo]

YES WE STAN THIS QUEEN

[@LeaNezz]

yes 👏👏

[@chaunybuck6065]

I'm 40. 1st time i have ever heard this! Honestly, BEST quote ever!!!

[@tanyakasim3988]

Agreed. Who asks a child his or her opinions on current events?

[@raesong926]

As a parent, I think I would actually feel sick if I was driving my daughter to audition for a rape/kidnap scene.

[@sierrachantell]

How on earth did anyone ever let this happen? Not just the parents, but how did this get through???? Children (and adults) have a hard time perceiving real from acting, why did they think it was a good idea for anyone to go through that?

[@NoIdea68]

@@sierrachantell Simple. Money hungry terrible parents

[@donnaedwards4488]

Responsibility starts with parent or guardian. Shame on them for allowing you to participate in inappropriate scenes and not insuring your well being as a child.

[@Joefest99]

Thank you! How about some pressure on these parents!!!

[@meganb3448]

sadly i think the parents of child stars are usually not that well off to begin with... people need money to survive so they pimp out their children essentially. like actually that's exactly what they're doing ...

[@Moribus_Artibus]

"The public have an insatiable curiousity to know everything except what is worth knowing" - Oscar Wilde

[@beccas.6983]

Oof. That's uncomfortably accurate.

[@kaalad3666]

"I sign in my name at the hospital, my body broken and my spirit shattered. A young girl battling her own health crisis finds a moment of relief, laughing at the television. I look at the screen. It's my face." Powerful meaning and a sort of sad irony in these words.

[@brittx537]

Right, she couldn't get away from it, even when seeking her own relief, dang.

[@kaalad3666]

@@brittx537 Yep, and the irony that that the very thing that had her in a state of crisis was helping someone else through theirs. Really bittersweet.

[@windsofthewest2164]

So many girls starved and given Eating disorders for life. It is sick

[@alisoni4992]

I really fear for kids whose parents vlog every second of their lives because there can be no real regulations to protect them

[@WillBlindYouWithLight]

Well. From one extreme to the other. Chris. Watts.

[@alaskangalb]

Dad Challenge Podcast talks about this constantly. Children unable to consent and profit off their children.

[@alisonratliff7814]

@@alaskangalb coming from the guy who once did that himself is rather ironic!😂

[@alaskangalb]

@@alisonratliff7814 did he? Where? Only watched and followed last month but if he learned and now combats it? Lessons learned and that is good. But didn't know that.

[@alisonratliff7814]

@@alaskangalb yes that's how he started. Sorry I didnt mean any disrespect to you. I just can't get behind someone constantly saying kids are off limits and saying these families are horrible people for what they do. All while using said kids in thumbnails and HIS videos for the profit of himself. Which is why I just choose not to watch. Just one search his name on KZbin and there is many videos from other creators explaining it better. Again my apologies if I came off rude towards you!

[@allenbird]

"My health matters...even if I feel like I'm the only advocate for it." This is such a powerful message.

[@kimberlyhernandez8596]

🙏🏽

[@ezahh]

Love this line

[@ameliajohnson4454]

🙌🏾

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

Yes ♥

[@katia.luna213]

YUP! I still feel so alone, but I'm all the better for it knowing it's not my fault and that my feelings are valid.

[@tristanneal9552]

For me, the most clairvoyant part was the point you made that if this pattern has become so easily recognizable that we all know about the "child star who goes off the rails", then it's beyond the point where we can chalk it up to personal responsibility.

[@edenredeemed]

I definitely think responsibility starts with the parents, who knowing this pattern still takes their child to the audition and eagerly gets them further involved in the industry. The chances of your child being discarded is high, the chances of them being abused even higher. The chances of them being a "success" are pretty slim and not worth it considering the cost.

[@joyceneville9214]

I can’t help but think of Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney...There have been too many more.

[@FukaiKokoro]

@@edenredeemed for sure. Seems like the kids who have decent parents end up ok but the ones with exploitative parents end up snapping. I mean who wouldn’t. When your own parents sacrifice you., The law is only 15% of money goes to the kid. That’s so messed up. I think at least 50% of income should be placed in a trust for the kid, 15% is not nearly enough and not close to being fair.

[@laurencsikistvan6630]

@@edenredeemed And even if they end up being "successful" they are still usually overworked and abused...

[@angrybunnies9664]

I didn't even know what rape was at age 6. I would have no idea how to pretend that. How the hell did Allyson know how to do this? Why was she even given context for this?

[@theshadylady1982]

They feel justified in exposing them to the info 'for the role' & they ultimately don't care if they end up traumatized. Sadly... most of the 'stage parents' just see the $$$ & never put much thought into long term damage to their child. They will claim to be 'supporting their kids dream' & only wanting to make them happy... and that was probably true at one point... but tends to get pushed to the side when the money starts coming in. It's common for the parents to become just as bad as the industry people... viewing their kid as an asset/ product & putting their focus on delivering a good product rather than on the well being of their child. Much like Jamie Spears or the Lohan's. They get caught up in the lifestyle & will do anything to keep it... including selling out their own kids. (Even after they become adults)

[@FadzaiSimango]

@H M We can only hope.

[@argustaveras6391]

More importantly, how… how was she given context for this

[@Fruitcake612]

She will have probably been shown videos of abuse to see how to act it

[@mistypedhi]

She wasn't acting to be raped. She was actually being raped. The majority of child stars have gone through lots of rape and molestation from executive types, CEOs, directors/producers..etc. She isn't in a film as a 6 year old being raped. She did commercials for toys when she was that little. The real rape was after the auditions.

[@goldenluver33]

As a therapist that specializes in developmental trauma, hearing you discuss the specifics of developmental stages and how trauma can impact those stages was absolutely brilliant. Thank you for speaking on this.

[@allurax3]

Nursing student 🙋🏻‍♀️just finished pediatrics, taken psychology classes many times. These children are extremely neglected fundamental psychological and physiological needs are deprived and it’s heart breaking. Even the privileged are abused.

[@KarlhaReadsBooks]

When i was 10, i told my parents that i wanted to be like you, like Miley, like Demi, like Selena, like the Jonas Brothers... My parents didn't let me, i was sad and my dad told me: "darling, that life, hollywood life is not for children, as a parent i have to protect you, and i'll protect you from that kind of life, i hope you someday understand why and what i'm saying this..." now i totally understand it and i'm thankful for it

[@kawtharbelkacemi1207]

I'm too my parents said this to me ☺️

[@TheArtofBeingReacts]

You're parents are wise❤ and love you, bless em❤🤗

[@myasullivan1170]

Mine said the same

[@JohnsonKayla12]

Your dad is awesome

[@Machelle3200]

Exactly..I said no showbiz allowed!

[@miraid06]

I had two children that were successful actors in Hollywood. I pulled them out of the industry when my youngest was getting too many large auditions and casting directors started essentially chasing him to audition. Everyone thought I was crazy "he's going to make you rich!" I always told my kids that it was my job to take care of them and not the other way around. Seeing behind the curtain let me know that this was no place for children. I'm so happy that I listened to my conscious and not follow money and fame. I'm proud of you for advocating for these children because for many, their parent's aren't.

[@ohheyjanessa7923]

No you didn’t b

[@JamesBrown-ri7sc]

Had two children. Past tense lol Got rid of them once they were unsuccessful in Hollywood huh

[@roseh458]

It still shocking to see old footage of Shirley Temple surrounded by grown ass men in her movie scenes. It's been going for generations and it needs to stop already. Good on you for being an advocate and keeping this current.

[@windsofthewest2164]

Poor Shirley Temple on the good ship lollypop, I am sure she was being peddled to all those pervs/

[@MortallyGay]

I love how articulate she is. Every sentence is purposeful.

[@jrojala]

I’ve noticed most people that survive childhood trauma are very mature, and have immense emotional intelligence.

[@wisebumblebee]

She's been having to control her emotions for the camera since she was a child. She's not exceptionally articulate, she's an exceptional performer. She is definitely "on" in this entire video. When you've been controlling your image since you're ten, it becomes part of your personality.

[@jeniffermoreno5041]

I understand everything. But I'm bad at talking so articulate.

[@angelikabatwoman]

I think it's a written text that she studied and is performing by heart, but yes, it is still very articulate and a great text!

[@Kelly-xp3wm]

Sounds scripted. Doesn’t seem as genuine as it would if she were just speaking from the heart.

[@quantumtruth]

Mental health therapist here: therapists picked for these jobs need to also be monitored and supervised. Checks and balances all around. Thank you for sharing this!

[@lifewithzaria8476]

definitely!

[@ev_green_]

literally my first thought.... first thought

[@OmarThePuppy]

@@ev_green_ Can you elaborate?

[@lulu91318]

If the production company are the ones hiring these mental health practitioners then they're going to hire people who will act on the interests of the company rather than on the safety of the child stars. I can see this becoming a trend where companies hire mental health staff but then not actually change their ways.

[@BNJ24]

Exactly my thought. It’s like thinking the HR manager cares about you.

[@sarahg2653]

She's not just telling her story, she's providing pragmatic solutions. Well-done, lady!

[@intoodeepstl314]

Maybe if she refrained from the the Masonic hand symbolism. She need to call the cops.

[@badaboop2035]

I always hated those "ten shocking things about these child actors" because they're just people and if something bad is happening why are they just making jokes or glamorizing their pain instead of helping them

[@alexisakalexii96]

“This is your first time hearing my story, but this is the millionth time we’ve asked you to hear it.”😭💔

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

*listen

[@universeofopulence]

@@RedRoseSeptember22 .... not really, check the description box, it's all there..

[@henriettagabrieldivine7062]

Same vibe as "not all men, but 97% of women" 😔

[@allisonivanoff9512]

I think a documentary with her and several other child stars telling their side around child stardom would be very fascinating and make a huge impact on this issue, including actions put towards helping the issues for future generations. Also thanks for the documentary recommendations I’ll have to check them out!

[@BellesView]

Agreed. This video alone deserves an award.

[@SetASpark]

Sadly nothing will happen. Hollywood is too powerful. People will be too scared to name names so people won't be held accountable. If they do talk, they will be killed. Unless people in power are gone it will continue the same way and the only way that will happen is if the public understands what's really going on.

[@eweateresa3005]

There's an HBO documentary called Showbiz Kids with Cameron Boyce and other older (former) child actors talking about what that was like and the pressures. I haven't seen the full thing, so I don't know how much it goes into specific changes they would have liked and the way the industry is built for them to fail the way Alyson does, but it is the closest thing I know of to what you mentioned.

[@hannahsydneysmith]

Corey Feldman made one

[@jeffss04]

@@SetASpark 100% truth Just like the bullshit going on right now.

[@nacoleinseoul2604]

I wanted to be a child actor. I remember feeling like a victim because my dad said no. I thought he lied to me about how bad life was for young actors and how they eventually “go off the rails”. After I was about 20 years old I realized he was just looking out for me. Honestly, I’m glad he wouldn’t let me act. I am not mentally strong to handle to pressure and the lifestyle. I would’ve been one of the child actors who acted out. I’m proud of you and hope your word reaches millions.

[@free2bkittenforever]

I’m a former child actor (though not a successful or well-known one) and I endured so much trauma that I had to “retire” (go on disability) at age 25. Though I had already had a long career, since I started my career at age 2. I relate so much to all of this. Thank you for sharing

[@windsofthewest2164]

I am sorry to hear that. What did they do to you?

[@laurencsikistvan6630]

At age 2???? What fucking parents start to make their INFANT work??? They truly don't do it for the child but for themselves...

[@free2bkittenforever]

@@windsofthewest2164 Alyson says it better than I ever could. Also Jeanette McCurdy

[@dadakashindi9305]

This is what my teacher meant when he said “articulate.”

[@star_fossil]

It is easy to seem articulate, she is an actor reading a script.

[@amiablehacker]

@@star_fossil This is her story. She wrote it. The script is just to streamline her thoughts.

[@tweedledummie]

@@star_fossil how did you just assume she didn't write the script herself?

[@paigez7680]

I love how Disney stars are coming out and being honest about their stories on the Disney Channel. It really makes me rethink watching those shows anymore due to the torture they go through. Be careful what you're supporting directly or indirectly.

[@DDZines]

Always be an educated consumer❣️👏👏👏

[@cd3881]

Mind you, they are not even telling you the half of it Because what many have experienced, especially the ones who make it to the very top is too deep and too dark and sinister to share. They are sworn to secrecy and not just the movie industry, the music industry as well. If people only knew they would stay as far away as possible. All that glitters is not gold. Fame and fortune is nothing it cracks up to be. These people are tormented but put on a good face for the camera. What they don’t tell you is they can’t sleep at night. Why you think many use drugs? People better wake up

[@amber69nicole69]

Nickelodeon child stars also

[@angelacanedit]

Don't reduce it to Disney. This is an industry problem, Disney included!

[@simpleplanfan011]

@@cd3881 Unfortunately you’re right. The drugs and alcohol make it easy to forget and live the lie.

[@sanfernvalley619]

The shame of “you should be lucky to be here” must be hard to overcome

[@suavekingdom6046]

I wanted to be a child actress SO bad! My father groomed me for it from day one! I went to an audition and was accepted! They wanted to fly me to LA immediately, till they told my father any money I make is mine and parents are not in control of it anymore. He pulled me out immediately

[@abeltesfaye_]

Your father is a poor excuse of a parent and you deserved better. I'm so sorry

[@deedebdoo]

@@abeltesfaye_ For not sending her to LA alone where he will have no control over what will happen to her?

[@anoziraflaminghot]

was probably awful to have your dad squash a dream like that but it probably worked out for the best. you probably avoided so much trauma at the hands of hollywood.

[@alessaapathy]

@@deedebdoo for being willing to subject her to this toxic lifestyle for a fucking pay check and only ceasing to do so when he realised that the money would be rightfully hers, he wouldn’t be his to spend. That’s why. 🙄

[@lisacallan5462]

Honestly though, you're better off. The blatant child abuse that happens in Hollywood is terrible and terrifying and often they try to separate kids from their parents to abuse them

[@asb13.]

Jennette McCurdy has an amazing podcast where she talks about issues like this.

[@karynbensinger4794]

I was just thinking how I’d love to hear them discuss this topic together.

[@giabarrone7422]

@@karynbensinger4794 Same. They would be great together.

[@NattieD911]

They need to collaborate

[@jlshadday6401]

I would love to see a podcast or a collaboration video where they discuss their experiences and bring more awareness

[@RavenBirdy]

@@karynbensinger4794 that would be amazing!!!

[@09cokeefe]

Jennette McCurdy's performance in her episode of SVU absolutely blew me away. Prodigal talent from a 10-year-old. Then I wondered what it actually takes for a child to get themselves into a mindset in which they can physically and emotionally create such powerful work... and thought it's definitely not worth it.

[@cincocats320]

I think I had stopped watching SVU by then. As a viewer it felt gross to see week after week mostly women and children being put through those stories. If it didnt feel healthy to view, I cant even imagine what it must be like to be a child forced to act it out take after take.

[@sammygecko_]

Makes me think about the show in a whole new way..

[@gigi-gc8gu]

Which episode was this? First time I saw her was zoey 101

[@CAPTAIN_CLOCK]

@@gigi-gc8gu S6 E11 "Contagious".

[@Born_Banjaxed]

On her podcast 'empty inside' she talks often about the pressure she felt from a young age to financially support her struggling family with her acting.

[@hannahrosereviews5073]

THIS is why I want to be a Child Guardian in the theatre. I want to foster a sense of childhood for the kids whose lives are being watched like a bug under a microscope. I want to show those kids that childhood is important and needed.

[@windsofthewest2164]

Then how would the creeps get hold of kids? They want to be alone with 2 years olds. All alone......

[@altahir9515]

I recently performed as Juliet in a high school production of Romeo and Juliet. I couldn't get myself to cry during my suicide scene, so for a week I tried to method act my way to tears during my every free moment. By trying to feel suicidal. That's a massive problem? When the pressure of the rehearsal room follows a kid throughout every moment of the day, that's a problem. The student director pushed me out of my comfort zone ever single rehearsal. I had to strip away all my emotional barriers in front of everyone, trying to give my best performance. During the show I was so nervous my vision went black and my face and hands went numb. Nothing about that entire experience was at all safe or healthy, and there were no systems in place to keep kids safe. I used to love acting but after that I quit drama, and never intend to do it again. And this is all the result of a school production. Imagine that in the actual industry. Acting is dangerous and the industry is dangerous. That needs to be acknowledged and reckoned with.

[@sammygecko_]

Acting can be great when it’s appropriate to the child actors age. 12 years old? A middle school play that isn’t an adaptation of something with a duly themes meant for an adult audience. Do the Wizard of Oz, for Christ’s sake, not a Shakespearean tragedy. The fact that it was Romeo and Juliet, a cautionary tale about adults neglecting their children and letting them run wild, was the play they chose for school. Or teach kids how to fake cry, don’t just tell them to try and have them figure it out unsupervised. That’s like teaching someone how to do stagecombat but not teaching them. Method acting can do terrible things to adults.. hurts to think about that with children. Acting is a Vulnerable experience. People need to realize that. The suspension of disbelief can follow the actors off stage, and people need to be prepared to help

[@elliothaugen4621]

I am so sorry that happened to you. I relate. I was in a short film when I was 16 about a girl who commits suicide and I thought the best way to get an authentic performance was to trigger my own mental illness on purpose. Luckily, the crew let me rest after, but it was pretty terrible. The next year I had an acting teacher tell me that we didn't need to feel the same things as the characters, and that the only way to avoid burnout is to dissociate yourself from your character. It was so helpful to hear and made me so much less anxious about pushing myself too far in future performances. The whole trope of "Method acting" has been an absolute disaster for the mental health of actors. Ultimately, all you need to do to act is adjust your body and voice to match a character. Adding in this whole hyper psychological aspect is unnecessary and harmful. It actually comes from a lot of misinterpretation of Stanislavski's acting techniques when they were translated into English. Unfortunately, it has become the most well-known acting technique in the world. We need all child actors who do difficult scenes to be educated on this. Theater is about creating an illusion, not a reality where actors feel miserable.

[@halfbloodprincess989]

True! And these are children - probably incapable of fully understanding reality and fcition (aka real feelings and acted ones).

[@addi9817]

I do musical theatre and I'm playing a hard part. My character deals with some hard things, anxiety, sickness, and ends up dying at the end. My director doesn't want it to affect me personally so I have pre-show and after show routines to make sure I don't get stuck in my characters head space. It's a hard to go through a character's trauma each night. It can take a toll on a person if they let it. I'm so happy that I have a director who cares about me as an actress. She makes sure that I don't turn into that character. You don't have to think exactly like the character would to act.

[@juliamontgomery7312]

I am sorry you had to go through that. My acting class after high school always taught me that no director should ever force you to draw emotions from painful situations like that. This method is misguided and straight-up painful. I was a small part of a similar experience with a student director; he was once a nice person, but slowly morphed into a theatrical dictator who abandoned the show to attend an audition for an acting school that he would never be a part of. He and the producer/choreographer would choreograph dances in a way that hand us throwing ourselves onto the stage floor multiple times; sometimes those rehearsals would occur four or five times a day, for four days a week. My mum thought I was being bullied again when she saw the bruises on my leg. The worst thing he ever did during a rehearsal was harm another actress out of anger. He became angry over something; we weren't entirely sure what, but we know it never took much. He picked up one of the school-chairs and threw it across the room; the chair-leg hit the girl in the head and she had to go to the sickbay. The same thing nearly happened to me a week later. He claimed it was an accident the first time but never apologized for it. I knew what did it the second time though; I had to deliver a message that one of the dancers couldn't make it that day. He started calling that dancer a c#%t, threw another chair, followed by a water-bottle, both of which landed about a foot away from myself. Fifteen minutes later, he acted as if the incident never happened. I am sorry they treated you that way. No director should ever try to make somebody have those feelings, just for them to get the credit for a successful performance. You are right as well; we need to acknowledge the danger of the acting industry, especially for young people.

[@shannon_w.]

I was a manager at Limited Too from 2002-2004 when our store promoted all of the Disney channel shows and movies. I remember all of the little girls who came in with their Mom’s and the Mom’s buying teeny tiny skirts and tops for their little girls and having them perform songs and choreographed dances for everyone in the store with hopes that their child would make it to the Disney Channel. These little girls were dressed like Fergie and JLo and danced like them and the Mom’s thought it was so cute to oversexualize their children. It honestly made me sick to see that and to see these women live vicariously through their little girls! I am so glad this young woman has grown up to be such a strong, level headed person. I think about the little girls I saw sometimes and wonder.....Where are they now?

[@kaylasmart]

Wow that's so sad

[@TheCandisr]

Portland

[@MonstehDinosawr]

OnlyFans

[@Ass_of_Amalek]

good one

[@user-xd6nc6rg7b]

And if you speak out, the fake feminists yell at you about how kids’ bodies aren’t sexual no matter what the wear (no shit) and if you think clothes can be inappropriate on a child, you’re the perv. Not the pervs getting off on all of this. They’re not supposed to be looking, so it doesn’t matter how parents display their kids’ bodies. The clothes are fine, parents putting their kids at risk are fine, it’s only the people speaking up who are wrong.

[@lara-yc6iq]

even the phrase “child entertainers” is so disturbing. this video desperately needed to be made. thank you so much for this.

[@Chillypepper7451]

this is so true, I felt something physically shift in me when she said that phrase and it made me realise how little I have questioned this complex. What right do we have to make children entertain us? Alyson does such an incredible job of communicating the long lasting trauma of her experience. Such an amazing video.

[@rnbsteenstar]

@@Chillypepper7451 It should only be because the kid wants to, not because of force.

[@Rayglisse]

Child acting is so glamorized nowadays, I am glad someone so iconic as you can be vocal about it. This was so important! Thank you.

[@kitkatcarebear7170]

I’m so glad now that former Disney Channel and Nickelodeon stars are coming forward about their experiences. This is a big step in increasing awareness on the dangers of fame as a child. You’re amazing, Alyson!

[@luvvvv124]

The scariest part is when i hear the kids were the breadwinner in the family i cannot imagine being a child and making the money my parents and family need to survive 😳.

[@evesgraphicartistry1648]

This happened when Britney Spears was a teen and is unfortunately still happening due to the conservatorship they set her up for so they could get control.

[@shahzaib-rr6cl]

Selena Gomez was single handedly her family’s only breadwinner from the age of 7

[@LovelyKelly645]

@@shahzaib-rr6cl so was Jenette mccurdy while on iCarly, and i believe Shia Lebeouf as well

[@TheArtofBeingReacts]

McCauley Culkin..😥

[@TheArtofBeingReacts]

@@LovelyKelly645 yeah, Shia's fam had some issues😢😢😢💔🤗

[@lizmcnulty9579]

My oldest daughter is 6 and I cannot even imagine her having the self awareness to understand the difference between real life and acting.... that's horrifying

[@seekittycat]

As a child from an abusive home I always saw myself on "train wreck" teenage stars. Not in a glamorous way but in a "my parents are just like that too I'm so sorry". And when the media laughed at them it just taught me the world is a cruel place and you must hide yourself at all cost.

[@HMMC101]

Wow. She is so smart. I always knew she was smart, but she has found her purpose here! She was made to help these minors and be an advocate for them. I wish you well, Alyson and hope you are gaining your power back one day at a time. You are strong, girl. I watched you on Disney Channel when I was a little girl and it is extremely disappointing to hear how the Disney (and Nickelodeon) child stars were treated. And it’s not just them. Way to go and well said. You’ve got my support!

[@m.j.638]

Not only did you explain the problem properly but you also proposed multiple counter measures that might help and I admire the hell out of you for that and for what you went through

[@ohmeowzer1]

Agree

[@rnbsteenstar]

Because you'll never end the child actors or stop children from wanting to be performers, so you might as well make it safer.

[@rachelauguste]

I can’t help but think about countless of interviews where adult actors talk about the difficulties of shedding the characters they play. ADULTS. Let alone kids 😩

[@amber3574]

It’s like suffering narcissistic parental abuse but times a billion. I feel so much empathy for people who have gone through this.

[@windsofthewest2164]

Amanda Bynes, Olson Twins, Brintney Spears, Shirley Temple, Judy Garland, And so many others

[@zehnscientist]

I can't stand seeing these recent testimonies. I'm 25, I grew up with these child stars. Disney was my favorite as a tween. The celebs were my age, living the dream and I felt close to them. It was wholesome. Now comes the advent of the adult world, where the truth is always a money hoax. I'm sorry about the path you and so many others were given, sweetheart. No person should ever, ever be treated as an object. This is absolutely out of hand.

[@TheCandymusiclover]

The adultification is insane. How you expect a 6 to 17 year old to be professional? How you put pressure on a CHILD to WORK more so other people's bills can get paid???

[@cupcakeassassin4546]

I don’t know who your psychologist is, but you BOTH deserve an award!!! Thank you for breaking this abusive world down in a way many people may never have even thought about.

[@cd3881]

She is sworn to secrecy so she hasn’t even told you half of what really went on or actually goes on behind the scenes in this industry. Many would be shock and find it unbelievable what happens...enough so that it would be dismissed as unreal. Why you think many in the industry (movie and music) end up using drugs, over dosing, killing themselves? The things they are exposed to requires them to numb themselves. They learn to pretend while in front of the camera all the while their souls are tormented. Don’t believe? Do the research.

[@jfm14]

@@cd3881 "Do the research", lmao. Ya'll are going to have to come up with a new go-to phrase because that one's a dead giveaway at this point.

[@lj3353]

I have an aunt who used to be a teen star so she’s the one who protect me and her other nieces or nephews from entering to entertainment industry

[@KattyuzkaVerenzuela]

Why isn't this being discussed openly in the media? I remember watching this actress and the group of child stars of Disney Channel, and thinking about how much work they were subjected to every year. Hopefully her voice will be heard, because honestly the industry needs to be closely analyzed and regulated.

[@vannclan]

Illuminati.

[@windsofthewest2164]

eh because they are part of the problem.

[@LeoErin]

I remember seeing you at the Nickolodean Kids Choice Awards. You danced with Will Smith then after you sat behind me to finish watching the show. I remember locking eyes with you and I remember thinking, I wonder what your life was like? To be so young and to have a career. You didn’t look like you were enjoying life. Glad your speaking out. My own daughter was in a pampers add. I was one of those parents excited about her possible Hollywood lifestyle. At the shoot, they wanted me to run away from her to get her to run, it made her cry, still they encouraged me to keep running when all I wanted to do is scoop her up. They didn’t care. They just wanted their perfect shot. Driving home I realized that’s not the lifestyle I want for her.

[@courtrae7167]

How sad… and for her to have to think “why is my Mom running away from me instead of to me?” Or whatever a little baby would think. 🥺😭 Glad you made a good choice for your baby

[@LeoErin]

@@mcnee1ce I Agree! It was f’ing stupid of me to not just say “no” swoop her up and leave.

[@hopeking37]

Girl! If they said run to make ur child cry I would have said no! Yea right ! Im not doing that to my baby

[@joshlynguzman8369]

omg ew will smith

[@reemyziz]

@@mcnee1ce What was the point of your comment? This is something that happened and she obviously regrets it, she can’t go back in time. You’re such an asshole

[@embee5605]

I took three of my little sisters to Disneyland sometime around 2003 and they spotted you, so they asked if they could take a picture with you. You were gracious enough to take the photo. I now wished we had just let you enjoy your day at Disneyland like we were able to. I'm so sorry for not allowing you that day of peace. I was the adult in the group and I should have known better. And now I do. Thank you for this very impactful message.

[@tourmii]

This is exactly why I never ever aspired to have any type of fame. I cannot imagine going out in public and being recognized by people I don't know and being asked to take pictures with them. I totally get it from the "fan" perspective but thinking about being on the other end of it made me never want it!

[@ev_green_]

@@tourmii yeah, I think true fans are the ones that at least hesitate to go up to the celeb, when I see shows in person, I actually get deflated and just see they are a person and I hate the idea of people being so praised, isnt healthy

[@tomboy2980]

I just had a thought that maybe it's not always a bad thing to irl meet someone you're a fan of, it just should be in a context where they've given consent to being approached, like a meet and greet or a con. That being said, I can't say with absolute certainty that if I saw someone I idolized out on the street, I'd say nothing, so maybe it's not so black and white...

[@cherrywilson6267]

Oh well, they want to be famous and it’s a full time life not when they want it.

[@tarinm4815]

@@cherrywilson6267 you’re incredibly dull to write that comment after watching this

[@AmandaMuse]

Wow, this is powerful.

[@waynenorbreyjr9371]

Yes!!!!! She is so well spoken.

[@ladylavender93]

This is the conversation I want to have! When I was young, I would tell my dad that I wanted to be a Disney star. My dad would sigh and say "you don't want that life, they don't have it easy." I never knew. But as an adult, it so obvious that so much abuse and wrongdoing has happened to child stars. My heart goes out to you and all the other child stars ❤

[@keanabbzx]

People focus on the word ‘star’ and dismiss the reality of also being a ‘child’

[@Doctor-Stoppage]

Its "dance monkey, dance," and when monkey is broken (or deemed less adorable) we'll get a new one! 😓

[@rebeccalembcke5365]

Listen to: Tones and I - Dance Monkey

[@amykernan7594]

So eloquently stated. This take would’ve saved so many 80’s and 90’s youth stars. Those that we’ve loved died too soon because they didn’t have a platform like this. This changes the game. Thank you so much for this vid.

[@EmmuelleBerger2011]

I literally had no idea it was that fucked up for children on the industry. The way Alyson articulated what she and many child actors have to go through to get a role and the after effects are disturbing to say the least.

[@aspasiatsampas9682]

This is so so important even more so today. Now, a child doesn't need Disney to be famous, their own social media can make them mega stars. We as a society do not know how to protect these children yet!

[@vascanj]

No we don't. And in the new landscape that is "social media fame" like...if we think that acting has very few regulations for their child stars, think about social media, which has almost zero. It's awful in every single respect.

[@cortneyalexander6662]

I wanted to be a “star” so bad. The older I get the happier I am I wasn’t subjected to the controlling abuse all of them go through.

[@dandylion2837]

Not ALL of them

[@susanjoyce4244]

@@dandylion2837 not all of them, but far too many

[@abeltesfaye_]

@@dandylion2837 Most of them though.

[@ebonneenelson2325]

Same here. I’m happy that I’m an ordinary citizen. I wanted to be in the business so bad when I was a little girl but I’m happy my mom ignored me. I’m definitely not going to let my daughter go into Hollywood. I’m just going to let my daughter be a child and when she turns 18 she can decide what she wants to do with her life.

[@rnbsteenstar]

@@dandylion2837 You're right. There are exceptions. But this one is a majority.

[@andyenglish4303]

Your first story is just mindblowing. How anybody could think that was an appropriate scene for any child to play out, much less a child of 6 is inconceivable. And that's obviously just the tip of a very shady iceberg. I wish you the best with this new endeavor and hope you can be a catalyst for real change in the industry.

[@Honeydoyou]

Also it being the audition so every child trying for the role has to go through it

[@SteveCrafts2k]

​@@Honeydoyou It makes me wonder if whoever wanted that had their hard drive searched.

[@207cutie]

i’m 22, just graduated college and am an aspiring actress. my whole life growing up i always wanted to join the industry and now after hearing everyone’s stories, i’m so glad i had the childhood i did, but i never realized in the moment how much childhood actors miss out on or endure. thank you for this.

[@rnbsteenstar]

@Karl M Those are your lucky outliers.

[@alanaluken1068]

Hi!!! I am a university student and this transcript, Alyson, ( like as is) should be a published article in an Acedemic Journal!!! This content should be used as an assigned article reading given by professors, or as a scholarly journal that students can cite for papers for any student who is taking courses in/ majoring in psychology, child development, journalism, media, communications as well as just being an amazing piece of acedemic literature!!! I am blown away by your content, sentence structure, VOCABULARY, research, everything!!! Your ability to comprehend and articulate these experiences is remarkable. Wow. Absolutely blown away!!!!

[@lisavang9125]

completely agree as a college student myself. we need more of this

[@onegirlshow1387]

Certainly! I've arrived to this video just in time with a uni project where we have to analise an audiovisual piece of our childhood. The one I picked actually includes Alyson. It's crazy cause I didn't searched for this video but the topic is so important and relevant, and the development of the argument is clear and eye-opening. Thank you so much, Alyson. It's true, media and us as an audience often talk or consume toddler-to-trainwreck stories, not without empathy, but also not with enough deepness and reflection.

[@ChibiChidorii]

you can stil cite as a primary source 😊 but yeah, academically it would be more impactful as a published text. She should at least write a book or submit a paper to a journal

[@makiisa02]

agree 10000 PERCENT!

[@aw04tn58]

Great idea. She would need to have sources beyond her lived experience for it to appear in a peer reviewed journal. I'm not sure of the ethics of using yourself as a case study. It would be a good addition to the academic discourse and would be worth the work that would go into preparing it for publication.

[@madmes905]

I was an extra in your movie Alice Upside Down, and remember being 11 on set and idolizing you. To think what you were going through during that time, and my impression of it... it just shows how we use people for their energy and talent and throw them away without a second thought.

[@DianaFireFox]

Wow. I was a VERY young child when I first saw you on TV, and you are only four years older than me. I've never realized how young all of the actors were.

[@aliciadeadlydaisy7543]

This is the smartest video I've watched all quarantine 👁️👄👁️

[@Prizzilla]

The outline you used was so much easier for us at home to understand without having to blame child stars. I’ve never thought about how acting out a scene for an audition could traumatize you. Thanks for shedding light on this.

[@anomalyalice]

This is so important and needed IMMEDIATELY. The most followed person on the entire TikTok platform is a 16 year old girl. Children need advocates who are on their side for more than just a paycheck, but to actually protect children from harm.

[@marianwagwu1730]

Informative, articulate and brave. A true inspirational speaker. I've always known child acting was unhealthy but have never had the process unpacked like this before; she's a star, in the real sense of the word!

[@amy_lee]

This was so awesome- offering practical solutions and guidance to where to head to next. I’ve been watching and learning about what happened to Amanda Bynes, the Olsen twins, Jeannette McCurdy, etc. and feel so much compassion + anger. I’m a fan of your work, Alyson, and am excited to see what you do next! 🦋

[@abdullahtk33]

!!!

[@vascanj]

@@heydudedolfan13 Oh yes. A super early example. Or literally *anyone* at Nickelodeon or other networks that just got exploited. Or people like Ricky Garcia, whose bodies were *used* and *taken advantage of* and no legal support was ever offered from the companies that enabled this abuse. It's horrifying, honestly and truly.

[@brynndally9869]

Agreed!

[@ElisaTayler]

What happened to jeanette mccurdy??

[@cailaporsch8236]

Monarch programming rebranded.

[@babymochijamz4608]

Thought I’d add this but I learned in therapy that when we either reenact a scene in our mind or make up a scenario of what could happen to us, our bodies can’t tell if what’s happening is in our mind or if it’s really happening. So for you to have to act out such an awful scene at 6 years old must’ve been incredibly traumatizing

[@Anvandiel]

Yes! It's well known in roleplaying communities as Character Bleed, and I learned about it first during acting classes in college. The scene might not be real, but the emotions? They are, and the brain can't differenciate the two. I'm shocked and upset that, especially for children, there is NO support on film sets. Unregulated bleed can, and often will, create real trauma.

[@lorraine5800]

@@Anvandiel it’s a question in my view of going beyond support on sets, because it’s inherent to the acting craft that you will get into a range of emotions and our scripts are often gratuitously violent or morally confounding - so for me the question plainly is, should such young, developing souls be subjected to this industry at all? Maybe kids should stick to saccharine school musicals and plays, or wholesome activities 🤷🏼‍♀️ Because they deserve every ounce of protection we can give them from the abuses of the world.

[@basicallyv9873]

Right. I always think that when I see these prank channels, even worse a six yr old and a rape scene...wow. Not to mention the rejection cycle based on looks and performance. How can they actually grow mentally and physically into a full person with a real sense of self. Scary

[@christalcavanaugh]

I watched cheaper by the dozen 2 last night and it’s so sad hearing how stressed and overwhelmed she was at that point in time. I look forward to more content like this of Alyson Stoner as not just an adult but a whole person free from the constructs of what other people think she should be

[@soulscream6508]

after watching the video the “& now you know!” made the hairs on my neck stand up. ouch. i never expected that phrase to hurt because my emotional connection to it is joy.. it’s me in my living room as a child, surrounded by my family. it hurts now because what brought us so much happiness, brought her pain. :( these children deserve so much better.

[@melbagarcia-ventura]

I remember when fuller house premiered on Netflix and the cast made that dig in the first episode about the Oleson Twins. Then John Stamos made a statement or a tweet about how they were entitled brats not to come back to the reboot 😒 Disgusting.

[@mjjjermaine]

That’s really gross :(

[@prettydalila]

Yeah I didn't know that.. BS and not fair. I just don't understand how this isn't child exploitation straight out😢

[@melbagarcia-ventura]

@@prettydalila I think he retracted the original tweet and talked to MK but according to the twins the production team never called them about the reboot and I think there was an effort but they ultimately turned it down. The production team jabbed them in the finale too 😒

[@ambercotrone]

Everyone loved those men because they seemed so likeable and family friendly. I’ve always gotten the creeps out of all of them. They always seemed like the “niceness” was a show, but to me they seemed sociopathic underneath it

[@Kelly-xp3wm]

He’s very close to them in real life. I’m pretty sure it was a joke when he said that. Their family and his are very good friends.

[@musiclover-yx7ty]

This story reminds me Miley Cyrus. She said at Joe Rogan podcast that she didn't have recovery days, she was working even on weekends, felt so much pressure always to be #1 (at the age of 13 she already had #1 album on billboard hot 200 and to 15 years old she had already 3 #1 albums, a billion franchise, #1 movie and #1 tv show, #1 tour and #1 book and she was the richest and most famous teen in the world. When she finally left Disney, she had an identical crisis and couldn't understand who she really is and people were saying that they don't want Miley, they want Hannah back so she felt like no one gives a f about real her and she wanted to leave the stage because she felt like she is not important anymore. I feel so bad for her. I'm glad now she's at better place. I hope she will take care of herself. There are always people who will love and support her journey. Such an incredible talent. It's a shame how bad the media treats her. Every day i see fake articles about her that she died from over dose. This is so low of people to expect the mental breakdown of the child star instead of supporting them and protecting their mental health.

[@user-ve3oj9re2k]

people don’t talk enough about how cruel the media is to miley...especially during bangerz era, the media was constantly judging her and turning the general public against her. they didn’t allow her the freedom to grow up and fueled her identity crisis. thankfully she has a strong family to keep her grounded and has found herself/ her sound. the media is coming around to her but she deserves an apology. 💜

[@ruebenromero2497]

Stan Miley ❤️

[@XoOverdosed]

@Karl M Sept 20, 2020, Joe Rogan podcast #1531

[@SierrasCoolChannel]

Miley Cyrus is a cold-hearted, shitty human being.

[@TheArtofBeingReacts]

@@SierrasCoolChannel maybe perhaps, idk. If she is I hope that she works that out...but it's still awful if she was exploited or overworked imo.

[@lisah8438]

I love how she explaining ACE.Adverse Childhood experiences. It makes so much sense as to why former child stars seem to have so much trauma and I don't want to say issues, but issues.

[@thebisexualunicorn1072]

I think about this every time I watch drama movies with children. How can a little child understand... 🖤💔

[@Lavrnjaa]

You are so articulate! So interesting to hear this perspective from a person and not a tabloid.

[@hao9508]

For real

[@vonvon9107]

yes its such an eye opener its maddening 😡 no body cared about these children on sooo many different levels of their lives

[@XxCuutesityxX]

Pretty pppp

[@kdholden]

First off, this deserves NATIONAL attention. Would be amazing if the Olsen twins would comment or respond to this

[@gaytwinksfortrump]

I’m wondering where mainstream media is at ? Oh they are just being paid to ignore this and talk about bullshit.

[@serenereader]

International too.

[@kdholden]

@@serenereader You are so Right

[@RubyMelodyMusic]

This exact transcript was published in a mainstream media publication and the press from that exclusive article is why I looked up Alyson's video.

[@kdholden]

@@RubyMelodyMusic Wow, that's really cool to know!

[@SomebodyOnTheInternet98]

‘Enchantment of Fame’- I love how that simple phrase fully encapsulates it.

[@jenniferyork7804]

Wow! Finally an honest portrayal of child “stardom”!

[@okaybyethen_8584]

Checking guardians motives is so important; Briteny Spears, Amanda Bynes, the Olsen Twins were all thrown to the wolves & then told they asked for this because of their parents choices and greed...

[@patricksedjro1764]

Because it was my choice to come to the United States in 2002 Because a seven year old kid can afford plane tickets

[@oliviarose5030]

As easy as it is to judge others, I’ve never been able to judge Amanda Bynes. She started in the industry so young, and even from the outside, it’s obvious child actors go through way too much for their age. I know the things I went through in childhood drastically affected me as a young adult. There’s a reason so many child actors have emotional and mental issues as they become older. It’s because they are mentally and emotionally put through the ringer most of their lives. Long hours, never being seen as a person, but a tool, neglect, stress over the spotlight, never having a normal childhood. That’s going to cause issues, and those issues will be very difficult to overcome. Some aren’t so lucky, while others struggle with it for years before finally being able to figure out who they are and what they want in life for themselves, while also coming to terms and confronting their past. There are so many ‘where are they now’ videos, but when I’m introduced to actors on the screen, I try to continue following where they are and what they are up to. I check in from time to time, even if they’ve left the spotlight. Not because I’m looking for dramatic stories, but because I’m hoping they’re doing well and are happy with their lives. When one of them does a movie after time away, I watch that movie because I want to show support. Even though I’ve never met any of these personally, I think it’s important to care. Because they are people.

[@Psalm2Charity]

This is an important indictment of how we treat children in this capitalistic world, period. I'm glad that she's taken the time to share her experience so eloquently and specifically. Access to healing is a privilege, and it takes a strong inner self:) I'm so glad she made it.

[@kavadiKagirinai]

People say many things about our generation. They can never say we were silent and complacent. We know the mission and we will do what needs to be done. Always loved her. 🥰

[@user-kw9mi6ch2h]

This NEEDS to blow up. She's trying to help the CHILDREN of our future. We need to do better for them !! Seriously, MAD respect for her for this

[@rebeccah9092]

3:17 No 6 year old should ever even hear that word to begin with, let alone be forced to convince themselves that it just happened so they could act it out convincingly on camera. This is horrifying. Thank you, Alyson Stoner, for your courage to come forward. You might be the reason other former child-stars find their courage to speak up. May God give you the strength you need to keep going.

[@bridgetthewench]

Seriously, who decided that this was something that needed to be filmed? There's absolutely no reason for it!

[@keithpeterson4081]

Ur dam right. No child should know what that word means. And a few more words like they teach in school. 2nd grade teaching kids about sex and different sexes. Very sick stuff.

[@dialmstyle]

I had to rewind that to make sure I heard that right. That is just sick to make a 6 year old act it out. I can’t help but think the person recording used it for his/her own purposes! 😢

[@SavedByGrace_CitizenEmperor]

I'm not a native speaker. Just after reading the comments, I came to the realization that the "fetus position under the table rape scene" was not meant a dark metaphor but that this had really happened!

[@SavedByGrace_CitizenEmperor]

I agree that certain scenes shouldn't be made at all. Why do we like watching violence and dark shit as entertainment? It's not like a movie like "Lilja 4-ever" (a one I thought of as a "good" movie) will make (m)any viewer go out and help victims. Or am I wrong? And that one is probably a movie that wants to raise awareness. I watch the movie and think to myself: Yeah, that's horrible and really tragic. And then I forget about it almost immediately. Like with the news. I will never understand why true crime movies or crime shows exist and are so loved? Nowadays the bad guys are often the protagonists and the lines between good and bad are blurred (Dexter, Breaking Bad). Are we still rooting for the baddies to get caught or are we secretly hoping they will win?

[@jjordan95]

the art of acting is becoming and then returning to the core of your being. it can be confusing to the mind and body, especially if you don’t know who you are and THAT is what is horrific. this video couldn’t be any better. message conveyed beautifully and i needed to hear it

the bit about the impact that a child star-studded culture might have on audiences really stuck with me. so much of my own perceptions about myself came from comparing my achievements to those of young people in entertainment. i admired you a lot growing up, "cheaper by the dozen" was one of my favourite movies and i loved your character the most. i'm 26 nowadays but i've been feeling like a failure since i failed to achieve something "significant" before i turned 16. in many ways i have never been able to overcome that feeling. this dissonance between how fast life goes and how fast i expected it to be has never left me. meanwhile, all of the successful kids i longed to be like were struggling too. such a simple realisation which can be so hard to grasp.

[@lavendaire]

That was so eloquent & well said. You definitely opened my eyes to the specifics and the mental trauma youth can experience in the industry. It’s so relevant bc this is happening to ppl who have so much influence in society. Supporting you & all you do 👏🏻👏🏻

[@brittanyjackson6432]

I agree Aileen! Love you and what you do also Lavi!💚😀 Yesss Alyson, this is soo relevant sis. The truth needed to be exposed! Kudos to you, may God cover and protect you! 😀🙏💜

[@katatonic726]

Yes - like you said it happens to people who influence a lot of people (image wise), but simultaneously it's happening to people so young that they feel they can NOT advocate for themselves 😞 & adults should protect children so only industry/society/& govt are to blame. It's a modern tragedy (by modern i mean 1900's to now). Such a heavy topic.

[@jscribbl3]

Usually when stories are told they're told as a more me perspective versus as a whole industry and the step process. Because people don't really know what the process is.

[@melissawerner6309]

Not just children, I was doing costumes for a film and we were filming a scene where this girl was stripping and making out with a guy in the water and there was such a weird vibe. I was really bothered and uncomfortable and I wished I could have stopped it.

[@sydneygeisen4385]

@@katatonic726 exactly. And the actors that had to pretend to care didn't advocate for them. Jessie didn't have to be underweight she was so chubby I'd be surprised if she wasn't a bit overweight. She could be fat bc she had a nanny image but alyson a mere child had to be malnourished?

[@alissa3003]

I wanted to be on disney channel so bad when i was younger. My mom said i couldnt because child stars always become drug addicts. I didnt believe her and said that wouldnt be me and begged. Glad she stood her ground and i didnt get into that even on a small level.

[@karenramnath9993]

Three cheers for your Mom! 👍🏻

[@aina3387]

When you're little you don't even understand what a "drug addict" is, you definitely don't have the comprehension to understand the dangers of it.

[@kaseyc1350]

How long did you accuse her of crushing your dreams? 😅

[@rnbsteenstar]

That's why I pursue indie.

[@oww5588]

it sad that its 2021 and that people *still* have to pick between career vs. one's own heath. that has got to change. no more excuses. Im glad that Stoner got the help she needed when she had the chance.

[@jessi822]

I prayed for her to be okay as we grew up 🙏 she is precious and so strong

[@mariejae]

My mom put me into a talent agency when I was about 5. I was taken to an audition for a tooth paste commercial... I watched other kids do whatever they were told, complete people pleasers, and attention seekers. I was not that at all... I know some people are super energetic and enjoy being the center of attention but reflecting on that now is kind of scary. It's almost like treating a child like a pet, to perform for some kind of reward. I'm glad I was not what they were looking for.

[@lastnamegordon3893]

The scary people who disliked this, are clearly those who take advantage of children.

[@LisaLeeLeeBlue]

Exactly what I was thinking

[@manager-nim2623]

Im glad she managed to become who she is right now and im happy to see how healthy she looks, i always loved her movies and now im proud of what she's doing.

[@tonimorris6512]

Thank you for telling your story Alyson. As a consumer and parent, It has enhanced my awareness on so many levels! It gives me comfort to see how well you're managing your childhood experiences...you're blessed to be so insightful, solidly grounded, eloquent and level headed...I'm inspired by your resilience.🙏🏾