Brett Gelman is setting the record straight about a long-standing debate among Stranger Things fans. Years after the third season ended, the actor who plays Murray Bauman is speaking out against viewers who blame his character for the death of the beloved Russian scientist Alexei.
In a recent interview, Gelman made his feelings clear, slamming the criticism that Murray was responsible for the tragedy at the 1985 Hawkins Fair. The actor defended his character’s actions, pointing out that Murray was doing everything he could to help Alexei.
Murray and Alexei’s Short-Lived Friendship
For those who remember Stranger Things 3, the unlikely friendship between Murray and Alexei was one of the season’s highlights. After Jim Hopper (David Harbour) and Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder) captured Alexei (Alec Utgoff), they brought him to Murray’s home to translate. What started as a tense situation quickly turned into a bond. Murray taught Alexei about American things like Slurpees and rigged carnival games. The pair spent time joking about Hopper and Joyce’s obvious romantic tension.
The fun came to a sudden stop at the Hawkins Independence Day Fair. Murray and Alexei were walking through the fair together. Murray left Alexei alone for a moment to get corn dogs. At that exact time, Grigori, a Russian hitman, shot Alexei in the stomach. Murray ran back and tried to get help, but Alexei died from his injuries. The moment left Murray devastated, and fans have debated the scene ever since.
Why Brett Gelman Disagrees with the Criticism
Gelman addressed the fan theory directly. He expressed disbelief that people would hold Murray responsible for Alexei’s death. The actor explained that Murray’s intention was never to leave Alexei in danger. He was simply trying to get food for his new friend.
The actor’s comments have gained attention on social media, with many fans agreeing with his perspective. Supporters point out that Murray did not know a killer was lurking at the fair. He also tried to save Alexei immediately after the shooting. The idea that Murray “left” Alexei ignores the fact that he only stepped away for a short time.
“Murray was literally just trying to buy a corn dog. He had no idea a Russian terminator was waiting. Blaming him for that is wild.” – Social media comment from a fan.
A Look Back at Alexei’s Death Scene
The scene in question takes place during Stranger Things 3, Episode 6 titled “E Pluribus Unum.” After winning a large Woody Woodpecker stuffed toy, Alexei is smiling and enjoying the American carnival. Murray walks away to purchase food. Grigori appears from the crowd and shoots Alexei. When Murray returns, he finds Alexei on the ground. He yells for help and tries to carry him, but it is too late.
Some fans have argued that if Murray had not left, Alexei might have survived. Others believe Grigori would have found a way to kill him regardless, as his mission was to silence the scientist who had shared Russian secrets.
Fan Reactions to Gelman’s Comments
Since Gelman’s statements were published, fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts. Many expressed support for the actor and his character.
One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “Murray is innocent! He was the best thing that happened to Alexei in his final days. The hate makes no sense.” Another viewer said: “People forget Murray literally screamed for help and tried to save him. The blame belongs to Grigori and the Russians.”
Several fans also noted that Murray’s guilt over the death is already shown in the series. In season 4, Murray joins Joyce on a dangerous mission to Russia. Some viewers believe his willingness to risk his life comes partly from feeling responsible for what happened to Alexei.
The Legacy of the Murray-Alexei Storyline
The friendship between Murray and Alexei remains one of the most talked-about side stories in Stranger Things. Fans often cite the pair’s scenes as some of the funniest in the show. The dynamic gave Murray a chance to show a softer side beyond his usual paranoid personality.
Alec Utgoff’s performance as Alexei turned the character into a fan favorite. His death was one of the saddest moments in season 3. The emotional weight of that scene has kept the conversation going for years.
Brett Gelman’s Connection to His Character
Gelman has a deep connection to Murray Bauman. The actor originally asked his agent to get him on Stranger Things after watching the first season. He joined in season two as a recurring character and became a series regular by season four.
In past interviews, Gelman has talked about how he relates to Murray’s sense of being an outsider. He has also shared that his own martial arts training influenced Murray’s karate skills shown in later seasons. The actor’s personal connection to the role makes his defense of Murray more meaningful to fans.
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The Larger Debate Among Stranger Things Fans
The argument over Murray’s role in Alexei’s death is part of a larger fan discussion about character choices in the series. Viewers often debate which characters are responsible for certain tragedies. While some fans see Murray’s brief absence as a mistake, others argue it was simply an unavoidable part of the story.
The show’s writers never had Murray directly address the blame in the series. He shows regret for the loss but is never accused by other characters. Gelman’s recent comments finally give a clear answer to the years of debate.
Where to Watch Stranger Things
All four seasons of Stranger Things are available to stream on Netflix. The fifth and final season is currently in production. The show remains one of the platform’s most popular original series.
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