Former Disney Channel child star Alyson Stoner has promised to bring the “dark” side of the industry to light in her brand new podcast, Dear Hollywood.
The 30-year-old, who uses the pronouns ‘they/them’, is best known for starring in films like ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ and ‘Step up’, as well as TV series ‘Drake & Josh’ and ‘That’s So Raven’. however, in fact, they began performing as early as the age of three.
In addition to suffering from anxiety and hospitalizations, Alyson has had a history of spending time in rehab and struggling with anorexia and bulimia.
In a teaser for Dear Hollywood, Alyson explained some of her struggles and gave a taste of what’s to come.
“Drug addiction, psychiatric hospitalizations, depleted fortunes, sexual trauma, incarceration, suicide.” “Name something that compares to the child star pop culture phenomenon,” they began.
Speaking up: Alyson Stoner has promised to reveal the ‘dark’ side of the film industry in her brand new podcast, ‘Dear Hollywood’
Then: Alyson, here in 2005, began working professionally in Hollywood at the age of seven
Not easy: The TV star, seen here in 2005, has struggled with anorexia and bulimia in the past
In the video, the actor sits on a velvet sofa with a large microphone and continues, “I’m Alyson, I started performing when I was three and worked professionally in Hollywood when I was seven.”
“In Dear Hollywood, I’ll walk you every step of the way from toddler to train wreck.” Are you here for gossip and conspiracy? For passive entertainment? For social activism?’
Finally, they added, “No one has ever included you in the conversation before and I’m going to need your help.”
When they shared the video on Instagram, the post was accompanied by a lengthy caption that began, “It’s time to debunk Hollywood.” Child stars are a unique cultural phenomenon with notoriously dark shadows.
“Premature young talent races to success only to repeat the horror tales of addiction, depleted fortunes and suicide.” What’s behind the wrecked pipeline from toddler to train? Why didn’t it stop? How are you connected to it at home?
“I will unveil intimate, first-hand accounts as well as deep expertise and action plans to transform conversation and inspire your own life journey and healing,” added Alyson.
They were quickly inundated with comments and praise from their friends and followers, as Jordin Sparks wrote, “Woooooow!” Stolz doesn’t even begin to cover it. I am happy that you are free and that you are in your power!’
Fellow child star Erin Sanders wrote, “Wow I’m so proud of you – plus you look absolutely amazing.” “Love your voice, your confidence, your hair, your styling.”
Her truth: Alyson urged listeners to prepare for open conversations every episode
Years ago: Alyson on an episode of the Nickelodeon TV show Drake & Josh in 2004
In the past: The brunette rose to fame at a young age and ended up struggling with anxiety
One fan told Alyson, “This is amazing.” Thank you for using your voice. I can’t wait to support you in this. I am so inspired by your courage and strength.’
And another added: “Great respect for breaking free from toxicity and using your voice to help others.”
Alyson decided to ditch the first episode of “Dear Hollywood” on her 30th birthday on August 11, and once again sat on the mustard yellow couch as they opened up about experiencing “a lack of privacy at such a young age.” ” had.
“After the age of eight I lost the ability to relate to non-famous experiences. Imagine being able to never go outside again on your eighth birthday without being stopped, asked for photos, or followed unless you wear a disguise or bring security with you…” they explained.
“From the age of eight, in school, at church, in restaurants and in parks, you get stared at and spoken to, and people know who you are, but you have no idea who they are.”
In recent years, the ‘Phineas and Ferb’ star has been vocal about his personal experiences in the industry and also founded Movement Genius, a digital wellness platform that offers on-demand classes for mental, emotional and physical well-being.
Alyson’s new podcast comes after they announced they were fired from an unnamed children’s show after coming out as queer.
The Ohio-born star opened up about the fallout and challenges they’ve faced in terms of their careers after sharing their sexuality.
Past troubles: The actor, pictured here in 2009, first developed anxiety when he was six years old
Opening: Alyson will detail her journey from toddler to train wreck in the new podcast
Shocking statement: Alyson has claimed they were fired from a children’s TV show after coming out as queer
In an appearance on the podcast I’m Literally Screaming with Spencewuah, Alyson detailed the alleged discrimination they faced in Hollywood after coming out in 2018.
They revealed that employers deemed them “unsafe” working with children because of their sexuality, which resulted in them being fired and their careers forever marred.
Speaking of the time they debated coming out, Alyson said, “It was really nerve-wracking and the reason I ended up doing it was because my then-girlfriend had reached a point in our relationship where it was felt like it was a…” It wouldn’t do her any favors to be hidden.
“Even though there were other pressures and considerations to be public, I felt like I wanted to do that.”
The former dancer revealed that after revealing they were gay, she was fired from her job and they started appearing in a children’s show.
“I ended up getting fired from a children’s show because they felt I was insecure now that they knew I was gay when I was with kids.”
“So there was definitely discrimination, but the beauty far outweighs the hate comments and death threats,” Alyson said.