Noah Schnapp, the young actor globally recognised for his role as Will Byers in the smash-hit Netflix series Stranger Things, has spoken candidly about the intense psychological pressures faced by child performers. In a revealing interview, the 19-year-old emphasised the critical need for professional mental health support beyond parental guidance for those growing up in the spotlight.
The Stranger Things journey and an 'abnormal' life
Reflecting on his nearly nine-year journey on the show, Schnapp detailed the surreal experience of fame from a young age. He recalled being largely disconnected from the outside world while filming, with limited contact with his family. "You don't have your phone and you're not part of the real world – you get three calls with your parents every summer," he shared. The actor recounted a moment when his mother emailed him to say he had a fan page with 10,000 followers, a concept he found bewildering at the time.
Now boasting a massive social media following of nearly 24 million on Instagram, Schnapp is preparing to bid farewell to the role that made him famous. The final season of Stranger Things is set to premiere with new episodes on Christmas Day, culminating in a series finale on December 31, marking a significant life transition for the actor.
Why child actors need therapy and support systems
Schnapp was unequivocal about the necessity of therapy for young performers. "No, this is an abnormal life and you need some type of support system outside of your parents," he stated. He admitted that during his early years, he struggled to comprehend why some individuals battled depression, substance abuse, or eating disorders.
"As you get older, you understand how the pressures of Hollywood can create that," he explained. "It's hard to grow up in the public eye. You don't know yourself, you haven't figured anything out, and now you're expected to know everything and have all the answers. People grow and learn, and to do that publicly is not easy."
Navigating fame and finding balance
The actor highlighted the unique challenges of developing a personal identity while constantly being scrutinised. He pointed out the dissonance between public perception and private reality for child stars. Schnapp also shared his personal strategy for maintaining equilibrium, revealing that he consciously avoids living in Los Angeles, the epicentre of the entertainment industry.
"I always tell my parents, 'I could never live in LA. I think I would get lost,'" he said, underscoring his desire for a life away from the relentless Hollywood environment. His comments shed light on the often-overlooked psychological toll that early fame and constant public expectation can take on young individuals.
By speaking out, Noah Schnapp joins a growing number of former child stars advocating for better mental health resources and a more supportive ecosystem for young artists in the demanding world of show business.
