My discrepancy with children in the industry is that they are made famous before they know who they are as human beings.

This quote by Corey Feldman addresses the emotional and developmental challenges faced by child actors in the entertainment industry. When he says, “they are made famous before they know who they are as human beings,” he is expressing concern over how early celebrity can disrupt a child’s natural process of identity formation. Feldman suggests that being thrust into the spotlight at a young age often robs children of the opportunity to grow and discover themselves in a healthy, private way.

His use of the word "discrepancy" implies a personal conflict or issue with how the industry treats young performers—not necessarily with the children themselves, but with the system that elevates them to fame too early. He is highlighting a fundamental misalignment between the emotional needs of children and the pressures of public life. When a child becomes famous before developing a sense of self-awareness and stability, it can lead to confusion, isolation, and long-term psychological consequences.

Feldman speaks from experience, having risen to fame in the 1980s with major roles in films like Stand by Me, The Goonies, and The Lost Boys. Along with his success, he also endured the darker sides of early fame, including struggles with abuse, addiction, and media scrutiny. His quote is rooted in both personal reflection and broader concern for the welfare of young stars who face similar paths.

The origin of this quote likely comes from interviews or memoirs in which Feldman critiques the entertainment industry’s treatment of young talent. Over the years, he has become an outspoken advocate for protecting children in show business. His words serve as a cautionary statement about the dangers of premature fame and the importance of allowing children to grow into their identities before being placed under the weight of public expectation.