Billie Eilish has continually captivated audiences with her unique sound and striking persona, but beyond her chart-topping hits lies a treasure trove of intriguing facts that many fans may not know. Here are 20 surprising insights into the life of the young pop sensation.

Eilish, who has openly discussed her struggles with Tourette’s Syndrome, was diagnosed at the age of 11. Despite her noticeable tics, she has worked hard to manage them, often requesting that they be edited out of interviews. However, she embraces this aspect of her life, asserting that it does not define her identity. In a candid moment, she shared how she still grapples with childhood fears, including her apprehension of the dark and a lingering fear of spiders. Interestingly, during a music video shoot, she even placed a live spider in her mouth, showcasing her ability to confront her fears in an unconventional way.

Her commitment to authenticity extends to her music video productions; Eilish refuses to use green screens and often engages in perilous stunts herself. One particularly harrowing shoot involved her wearing heavy clothing and weights while submerged in a 10-foot deep tank for six hours. Such dedication is emblematic of her artistic vision, which she has consistently pursued despite personal challenges, including a tumultuous breakup with Jesse Rutherford, who later released a song that criticized her.

Eilish’s journey as an artist began in earnest with the song “Ocean Eyes,” which her brother, Finneas, wrote for his band. Initially uploaded to SoundCloud for a dance class, the track unexpectedly skyrocketed in popularity, launching Eilish into the spotlight. This moment was a turning point, marking the beginning of her meteoric rise in the music industry.

Despite her success, Eilish’s upbringing was far from glamorous. Raised in Highland Park, Los Angeles, she faced the realities of growing up in a challenging environment, where she often heard gunshots and navigated the difficulties of financial struggle. Her parents, both of whom had careers in entertainment, made significant sacrifices to support her musical aspirations, even choosing to homeschool her to prioritize her artistic development.

Eilish’s creativity and resilience are reflected not just in her music but also in her philanthropic efforts. In 2020, she co-founded the nonprofit organization Support and Feed, which aims to combat climate change and food insecurity by providing plant-based meals to those in need. This initiative underscores her commitment to using her platform for social good, a mission she actively promotes at her concerts.

Moreover, Eilish has shattered numerous records, becoming the youngest artist to write a James Bond theme song and the first person born in the 21st century to achieve a number one hit on Billboard. Her accolades extend beyond music; she has also made headlines for her bold fashion choices, which she uses as a form of self-expression and a way to navigate her mental health.

Throughout her career, Eilish has faced scrutiny, particularly regarding her body image and emotional expression. However, she remains steadfast in her authenticity, embracing her experiences and using them to connect with her audience on a deeper level. Her openness about her sexuality, including her recent acknowledgment of being bisexual, has resonated with fans and contributed to a broader conversation about representation in the music industry.

As Eilish continues to evolve as an artist, her impact reaches far beyond her music. She embodies a new generation of musicians who leverage their fame for meaningful change, proving that being an artist is not just about the art itself but also about the influence one wields in society. With her unwavering dedication to her craft and her commitment to social issues, Billie Eilish is not just a pop icon; she is a powerful advocate for a better world.