Noah Schnapp Suggests Therapy For All Child Actors

The immense popularity of ‘Stranger Things’ turned its young cast into global superstars nearly overnight. While the show brought entertainment to millions, the reality for the actors involved was far more complex than the audience might realize. Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers in the hit Netflix science fiction series, has recently opened up about the unique struggles of growing up in the spotlight. He believes that the pressure placed on young performers is so distinct that therapy should be a requirement for anyone entering the industry at a young age.

Schnapp’s journey began with a sudden shift from a normal childhood to intense public scrutiny. He recalls being away at a summer camp when the series first premiered, completely disconnected from the internet and social media. It was only through emails from his mother that he learned about his exploding popularity, including the creation of fan pages and thousands of followers appearing instantly. This rapid ascent meant he bypassed the gradual adjustment period most public figures experience. Instead of a slow climb, he was thrust into a world where millions of eyes were watching his every move before he was even a teenager.

The actor has spoken candidly to ‘USA Today’ about the invasive nature of the press he faced as a child. Schnapp noted that adult journalists often asked him inappropriate questions regarding his character’s sexuality and his own personal preferences when he was just twelve years old. These experiences forced him to confront complex topics publicly before he had the chance to understand them privately. He felt an immense pressure to have all the answers for the public while he was still figuring out his own identity. This demanding environment made acting feel like a high-stress full-time job rather than a creative outlet for a child.

Reflecting on these challenges, Schnapp emphasizes that parents, no matter how supportive, cannot be the sole support system for a child star. He argues that the lifestyle is simply too abnormal for a standard family dynamic to manage alone. According to Schnapp, having a professional therapist provides a necessary third-party perspective that helps ground young actors. He notes that without this external support, it is easy to see why so many former child stars struggle with depression or other issues as they transition into adulthood.

As ‘Stranger Things’ approaches its conclusion with its final season, Schnapp is looking toward a future beyond the role of Will Byers. He has attempted to find normalcy by attending college, though even that came with hurdles like fellow students waiting outside his dorm room. His experiences serve as a cautionary tale and a guide for future generations of young talent entering Hollywood. The conversation he is fostering highlights the industry’s need to prioritize mental health just as much as contracts and filming schedules.

Please share your thoughts on whether child actors should have mandatory mental health support in the comments.