She described Disney as kind, generous and humorous, recalling his simple philosophy: "I try to show people the best in themselves." Yet fitting the Disney image became tougher in adolescence, and Mills later acknowledged how self-consciousness made teen years and work on set difficult.
Mills also reflected on being considered for Lolita but ultimately stepping away, influenced in part by Disney and Walt's counsel. She noted that her Disney films had widespread reach, which shaped her early career path.