When ‘Stranger Things‘ first premiered on Netflix in 2016, it became a global phenomenon that defined an era of pop culture. Now, as the show prepares to wrap up its story with its fifth and final season, controversy has briefly overshadowed the excitement.
Reports recently surfaced claiming that Millie Bobby Brown filed a formal complaint against her co-star, David Harbour, citing harassment and bullying on set.
What Sparked The ‘Stranger Things’ Cast Controversy?
The story, initially published by the Daily Mail, suggested that the complaint led to a months-long investigation by Netflix, though no claims of sexual impropriety were involved. The report set social media ablaze, with fans expressing shock. This was not just because of the nature of the claims, but because Brown and Harbour’s on-screen relationship has long been viewed as one of the emotional hearts of the series.
Related: Everything You Should Know About Vecna From ‘Stranger Things’
Brown’s Eleven and Harbour’s Jim Hopper share a father-daughter dynamic that has moved audiences for years. So, hearing allegations of tension behind the scenes between the two actors was especially unsettling for longtime viewers. Adding to the confusion, the report claimed Brown had a personal representative on set. This detail fueled further speculation about whether there had been ongoing tension during filming or whether it was a routine measure for privacy and protection.
Netflix declined to comment, but the silence didn’t stop the storm of speculation online. Many fans took to social media to voice concerns. Others pointed out that both actors have publicly expressed affection and respect for each other numerous times over the years. Then, just as the narrative was spiraling, the show’s creators stepped up to lcea air.
Duffer Brothers And Shawn Levy Reaffirm Unity Ahead Of Final Season
Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter at the ‘Stranger Things’ season 5 red carpet premiere, co-creator Ross Duffer directly addressed the matter, carefully, but firmly. “Obviously, you understand I can’t get into personal on-set matters,” he said. “But I will say we’ve been doing this for 10 years with this cast, and at this point they’re family and we deeply care about them. So, you know, nothing matters more than just having a set where everyone feels safe and happy.”
In case you missed it: Hidden ‘Harry Potter’ And ‘Stranger Things’ Parallels You’ve Probably Missed
It was a calm, thoughtful response. It emphasized stability and mutual respect amid swirling rumors. Co-creator Matt Duffer echoed that sentiment during interviews that followed. Adding to the reassurance, ‘Stranger Things’ director and executive producer Shawn Levy publicly dismissed the Daily Mail story as “wildly inaccurate.” The statement seemed to bring some relief to fans, especially when new photos emerged from the red carpet premiere showing Brown and Harbour standing side by side.
A follow-up report from Variety further clarified the situation, revealing that while an internal investigation had indeed taken place, the issue had been “resolved.” Insiders confirmed that Harbour’s reduced promotional appearances for the final season had nothing to do with the allegations. He had been preoccupied with his packed filming schedule, including ‘Avengers: Doomsday’. At the same event, Brown spoke fondly about her time on the show and her relationship with Harbour.
“We’ve grown up together in a way,” she said. “Eleven’s relationship with Hopper has always felt real to me, protective, frustrating, loving. It’s been such a privilege to share that with David.” Harbour, in turn, was equally sentimental when talking about his on-screen daughter. “I adore Millie,” he said. “We’ve spent a decade together, that’s longer than most families get to spend in one place. This show, this cast, it’s all so special.”
