Demi Lovato's 'Child Actor' Documentary Unveils Dark Underbelly of Fame

Demi Lovato's upcoming documentary, 'Child Actor,' delves into the harrowing experiences she endured as a young star, including suicide threats and rampant drug use.

In her upcoming documentary, "Child Actor," Demi Lovato reveals the disturbing consequences of childhood stardom, including suicide threats and drug addiction. The film, directed by Lovato herself, features interviews with other former child stars who share their own harrowing experiences.

One of the most shocking revelations in the trailer is Lovato's claim that she was targeted by a group of popular girls in her school who signed a suicide petition against her. "Saying that I should kill myself," Lovato says in the clip.

Demi Lovato's 'Child Actor' Documentary Unveils Dark Underbelly of Fame

The documentary also explores the widespread use of drugs in the entertainment industry, with Lovato and other interviewees revealing that they were introduced to substance abuse at a young age. Drew Barrymore, who appears in the film, claims she first experimented with drugs at the age of 10.

Lovato's story is particularly poignant as she rose to fame at the tender age of 6, landing a role in "Barney & Friends." Her Disney career began with a role in "As the Bell Rings," but it was "Camp Rock" that catapulted her to stardom at the age of 15.

Demi Lovato's 'Child Actor' Documentary Unveils Dark Underbelly of Fame

Her rapid ascent to fame came at a steep price. While on tour for "Camp Rock 2," Lovato, then 17, spiraled into a cycle of alcohol and drug abuse. She eventually punched a backup dancer who exposed her drug use, leading to her entering rehab.

"I think I'd passed the threshold of what I could withstand emotionally and physically," Lovato tells The Hollywood Reporter. "And I didn’t realize that child stardom could be traumatic."

Demi Lovato's 'Child Actor' Documentary Unveils Dark Underbelly of Fame

The documentary also sheds light on the unrealistic expectations placed on young stars by the entertainment industry. "At Disney, you became this instant role model, whether you liked it or not," Lovato explains. "And because Disney Channel was so big at the time, there was also this unspoken pressure that if you did make a mistake, you knew that there were millions of people just waiting to take your spot."

"Child Actor" is a powerful and unsettling exposé of the dark side of fame, highlighting the psychological and emotional toll it can take on young performers. It serves as a reminder that the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry can come with a dangerous price.

Demi Lovato's 'Child Actor' Documentary Unveils Dark Underbelly of Fame

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