Demi Lovato will make her directorial debut with a Hulu original feature documentary about former child stars.
The film will “deconstruct the highs and lows of growing up in the spotlight through the lens of some of the world’s most famous former child stars,” according to a press release.
The names of the other participants in the film have not been revealed. The format will involve an intimate conversation with Lovato, archival material, and verité footage, in addition to Lovato reflecting on her participation in shows like Barney & Friends, As the Bell Rings, Sonny with a Chance, and more.
“There is no better film or topic for my directorial debut than this story, which is close to home,” said Lovato. “Our project sheds light on important messages about growing up in the public eye, learning to protect our boundaries, and becoming active advocates of our own destinies. I’m humbled to be able to learn from the individuals who have lived the unique experience of child stardom and share their stories in our film.”
Lovato will co-direct with Nicola Marsh. The documentary is being produced by Michael D. Ratner OBB Pictures, a division of OBB Media; Lovato’s production company, DLG, and Scooter Braun’s SB Projects are also producing.
Lovato, OBB media and SB Project have previously worked together on the documentary series Demi Lovato: Dancing with the Devil, which was the opening night headliner at SXSW in 2021. Lovato and Ratner co-directed the singer’s music video for the single, Dancing with the Devil and most recently collaborated on the podcast series 4D with Demi Lovato.
“Demi’s first-hand experience and personal relationships are all on bold display in this poignant and exploratory film,” said Belisa Balaban, SVP of documentaries and unscripted series at Hulu Originals.
“Our audience has long been interested in delving into the nuances of pop culture, and Demi’s story – hard truths and all – uniquely suits her to the kind of stories we feel fortunate to tell at Hulu,” she said.
Lovato first appeared on the PBS show Barney & Friends in the early 2000s and became a household name after starring in Disney Channel original film Camp Rock alongside the Jonas Brothers in 2008. She started a solo show, Sonny with a Chance, but left after two seasons to enter treatment for “physical and emotional issues” at 18 years old.
The film will stream exclusively on Hulu and is set to premiere in 2024.
