Over the past few years there has been increased attention on Hollywood’s so called “childhood stars” or performers who have become famous at a young age.

    Most recently, child star Justin Bieber was arrested for DUI (driving under the influence). Bieber is also under the age of 21 and had an expired driving license. That was not Bieber’s only run-in with law. He was arrested first on January 23 for driving under the influences of marijuana, prescription pills and alcohol. He was later arrested for the second time that week on Jan 30 for assaulting a limo driver.

   “Justin Bieber is out of control. He’s into drugs and he’s into drunk driving. It is harmful to others,” freshman Josh Welch said.

    Another star who has been openly criticized is Miley Cyrus. Cyrus first received media attention in April 2008 when provocative pictures of her in her underwear surfaced online. It all seemed to go downhill through the years for Cyrus as many videos including ones of her smoking salvia from a bong and declaring herself a “pot head” surfaced. Recently, she shocked fans with her shrinking hemlines, even posing naked in her video for her single “Wrecking Ball.” in September 2013.

    Despite Cyrus’ many scandals, she has managed to build a large fanbase.

   “I like her because she is brave enough to express herself in every way she wants to,” senior Andrea Olmos said.
Despite their large fan bases, both Bieber and Cyrus seem to be going down the same path of childhood stardom gone wrong. While once serving as role models, these stars may not be as innocent anymore.

   “I think that they think that they have this new found freedom and they are taking advantage of that and are setting a bad example for teens and children who used to look at them as teen idols,” junior Elena Taylor said.