Child Star is a 2024 American documentary film directed by American singer Demi Lovato and American cinematographer Nicola Marsh. The film centers on the subject of the tribulations of experiencing child stardom, fame, and working in the entertainment industry at a young age. It stars Lovato, Drew Barrymore, JoJo Siwa, Raven-Symoné, Christina Ricci, Kenan Thompson, and Alyson Stoner. The film was promoted by the release of the single "You'll Be OK, Kid", performed by Lovato. The original score for the documentary was composed by Blonde Maze.

Plot

Child Star opens with a group of children who answer questions regarding their aspirations, the meaning of fame, and how being on camera makes them feel. The film delves into the historical background and economic importance of child stardom in the United States, dating back to silent film actor Jackie Coogan and Shirley Temple. The film interweaves this historical context with discussions between Lovato with other former child performers including Drew Barrymore, JoJo Siwa, Raven-Symoné, Christina Ricci, Alyson Stoner, and Kenan Thompson, regarding their personal journeys and experiences with fame as children. Chris Columbus, who produced Home Alone and the first two Harry Potter movies, also participates in the film sharing details about castings and the impact that fame has on the lives of young actors. Throughout Child Star, Lovato also shares her own life experiences as a former child actor on Barney & Friends and as a singer and actor on Disney Channel. The film features Lovato's conversations with her family, including sister Madison De La Garza, who starred on Desperate Housewives. Towards the end of the film, Lovato meets with aspiring child actors who ask her personal questions. The film ends with sessions of her in the studio writing and recording "You'll Be OK, Kid".