As many know by now, Millie Bobby Brown is a mom at 21 years old, having adopted a baby girl with Jake Bongiovi, and experts think it could cause a ripple effect with Gen Z.
Psychologist Dr. Michele Leno, host of Mind Matters with Dr. Michele told DailyMail that Brown’s adoption may inspire the younger generation.
“Becoming a mother at 21 is not unusual, and the biological clock concept encourages women to conceive sooner than later; however, it’s not every day that we see someone looking to adopt at 21,” she said. “Her decision may spark curiosity and motivation for those Gen Z interested in becoming a parent. Some may consider adoption as a short-term goal.”
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“Although we are accustomed to hearing about celebrity adoption, they are usually much older than 21,” Dr. Leno added. “Millie’s situation is uniquely polarizing, as some will criticize her decision and others will celebrate it.”
Per the Adoption Network, “2-4 [percent] of Americans have adopted, more than 1/3 have considered it.” Now, is there a minimum age? Well, most states require you to be at least 18, with some setting the minimum at 21 (Colorado, Delaware, and Oklahoma) or 25 (Georgia and Idaho), according to American Adoptions.
For those who don’t know, Brown and Jake Bongiovi started dating in 2021, and then after two years of dating, they got engaged. They later married in May 2024 in a private ceremony.
Then, on Aug 21, 2025, the Stranger Things star revealed on Instagram that she and Jake adopted a baby girl over the summer. “This summer, we welcomed our sweet baby girl through adoption. We are beyond excited to embark on this beautiful next chapter of parenthood both in peace and privacy.”
“And then there were 3,” she added to the photo with a willow tree. “Love, Millie and Jake Bongiovi.”
Before you go, click here to see celebrity kids who are all grown up.
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