Ezra Miller has always been a figure who defies convention, a Hollywood enigma wrapped in bold choices and unapologetic individuality. From their breakout roles in indie gems like We Need to Talk About Kevin to their high-octane portrayal of The Flash in the DC Extended Universe, Miller has carved a niche as a performer who thrives on intensity and unpredictability. Yet, it’s their recent string of appearances at major events, marked by eccentric fashion and a whirlwind of past controversies, that has reignited curiosity about what fuels this polarizing star. As Miller steps back into the spotlight, the question lingers: what makes them tick, and why does their presence spark such fervent reactions?

In May and June 2025, Miller made waves with rare public outings at the Cannes Film Festival and the Filming Italy Sardegna Festival. At Cannes, they dashed across the red carpet in a maroon tuxedo and beret, barely pausing for photos, a move that felt both theatrical and elusive. At Filming Italy, they posed alongside stars like Joe Manganiello, donning a striking blue-striped dress with a watermelon barrette, a sartorial statement that screamed defiance of Hollywood norms. These appearances weren’t just about fashion; they signaled Miller’s tentative return to an industry they’d stepped away from after a tumultuous period. Their bold style and cryptic demeanor have left fans and critics alike dissecting their every move, wondering what drives this nonbinary actor to embrace such a provocative public persona.

Miller’s journey hasn’t been without turbulence. Between 2020 and 2022, they faced a series of legal troubles that cast a shadow over their rising star. A viral video from 2020 appeared to show Miller choking a woman at a bar in Reykjavik, Iceland, an incident later described by their representative as a “spontaneous reaction” to provocation, though no charges were filed. In 2022, Miller was arrested twice in Hawaii—once for disorderly conduct at a karaoke bar, where they allegedly snatched a microphone and lunged at a patron, and again for second-degree assault after reportedly throwing a chair that injured a woman. Allegations of grooming and inappropriate behavior with minors also surfaced, though some, like those from activist Tokata Iron Eyes, were denied by the individual involved, and related court filings were withdrawn in 2024. These incidents, coupled with reports of erratic behavior, painted a complex picture of a star grappling with personal struggles.

In August 2022, Miller addressed these challenges, acknowledging “complex mental health issues” and committing to treatment. Their apology was a rare moment of vulnerability, a glimpse into the chaos that had engulfed their life. Fast forward to 2025, and Miller seems to be channeling that turmoil into creative rebirth. They’ve hinted at a new project with director Lynne Ramsay, with whom they collaborated on the haunting We Need to Talk About Kevin. In an interview with Lo Speciale Giornale, Miller spoke of writing in solitude, a process they found grounding, and expressed gratitude for the lessons learned from their “abyss.” Their devotion to Ramsay, whom they call one of the greatest living filmmakers, underscores a loyalty that seems to anchor their return.

What makes Miller’s reemergence so compelling is their refusal to conform. Their gender-fluid fashion—think cowboy boots and braids one day, a deep V-neck dress the next—challenges Hollywood’s rigid expectations. They’ve long been a champion of the LGBTQ+ community, coming out as queer in 2012 and nonbinary in 2018, and their unapologetic authenticity resonates with fans who see them as a trailblazer. Yet, their controversies have alienated others, with some questioning whether Hollywood should embrace their comeback. The Flash director Andy Muschietti has stood by Miller, praising their unique take on the character, but not all share his enthusiasm. Social media buzz, particularly on platforms like Facebook, reflects this divide—some users hail Miller’s boldness, while others remain skeptical, citing their past.

As Miller navigates this tentative return, their story is one of resilience and reinvention. They’ve spoken of the industry’s harsh realities, where relationships can be transactional, yet their focus remains on creativity and connection. Whether it’s through a vampire film with Ramsay or their eclectic red-carpet moments, Miller continues to provoke, inspire, and perplex. Their journey raises a broader question: can a star reclaim their place in Hollywood after such a stormy detour? For now, Miller’s enigmatic presence keeps us watching, waiting to see what they’ll do next.