As Millie Bobby Brown makes her final bow as the iconic Eleven in the Stranger Things finale this New Year's Day, fans are reflecting on a decade-long journey that almost never happened. The actress's path to global stardom hinged on a pivotal early rejection that, in hindsight, proved to be her greatest fortune.
The Audition That Changed Everything
Long before she became the telekinetic heroine of Netflix's biggest hit, a young Millie Bobby Brown was navigating the relentless world of acting auditions. At just 16, she revealed on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon the sting of a particular 'no' that left her questioning her future. "I was very disheartened by the rejection," she confessed, highlighting the industry's constant cycle of disappointment. That critical rejection was for a role in the cultural phenomenon Game of Thrones.
In 2019, Brown confirmed the specific part she had coveted: Lyanna Mormont, the fierce young head of House Mormont and a key ally to Jon Snow. The character, renowned for her steely resolve and memorable one-liners, became an instant fan favourite during the show's final seasons. However, the role ultimately went to another rising star, Bella Ramsey, who masterfully portrayed Lyanna from seasons six through eight.
A Sliding Doors Moment for Two Stars
This casting decision created a fascinating 'what if' scenario for two of television's most prominent young actors. While Ramsey's performance as Lyanna Mormont was widely acclaimed and helped launch her into the lead role of Ellie in The Last of Us, Brown's rejection freed her to audition for and land the part of Eleven in the then-unknown Stranger Things in 2016.
The Netflix series, which concludes with its fifth season finale streaming from 1am on 1 January 2026, propelled Brown, now 21, to international fame. It established her as a multi-millionaire, led to starring roles like Enola Holmes, and allowed her to build her Florence by Mills beauty empire. Her marriage to Jake Bongiovi, son of rock legend Jon Bon Jovi, further cemented her status in the spotlight.
Fan Debate: Was The Right Choice Made?
The revelation has sparked lively debate among fans on social media platforms like Reddit and Facebook. Many argue the casting was ultimately perfect for both actors. "I love Millie but Bella was made for that!" declared one Facebook user, a sentiment echoed by others who felt Ramsey's portrayal was definitive. Another added, "Bella Ramsey was perfect for the role of Lyanna Mormont... She's also very good in The Last of Us."
Some fans pondered the alternative, suggesting Brown might not have been as suited to the role of the formidable northern lady. "Bella Ramsey nailed it... the others/Millie wouldn't have been as good in my opinion. She's good in the role she got though," wrote a third commentator. Defenders of Brown were quick to highlight her own monumental success, with one stating: "All these comments, hope you people know that is the same girl that acted in one of Netflix highest grossing series Stranger Things."
Reflecting on her early career struggles, Brown's own words to Fallon now ring with prophetic wisdom: "I feel like you do get a lot of nos before you get a yes." The resounding 'no' from Westeros led directly to the universe-altering 'yes' from Hawkins, Indiana, proving that in Hollywood, sometimes the greatest successes are born from the most disappointing rejections.
