The creators of Stranger Things have broken their silence about reported on-set issues between co-stars Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour, emphasizing their commitment to a safe and happy workplace for their cast, which they describe as family.
The Allegations and the Response
Ahead of the final season’s premiere, a report from The Daily Mail alleged that Millie Bobby Brown had filed a formal complaint of bullying and harassment against her co-star, David Harbour, before filming began. The report claimed the complaint contained “pages and pages of accusations,” prompting an internal investigation by Netflix that lasted for months.
At the Stranger Things 5 world premiere in Los Angeles, the show’s co-creators and producer were asked about these claims. While not addressing the specifics, Ross Duffer stated:
“Obviously, you understand I can’t get into personal on-set matters, 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.”
Executive producer Shawn Levy also weighed in, calling the creation of a respectful environment a fundamental part of his job. He also cast doubt on the accuracy of the circulating reports, noting:
“I’ve read a bunch of stories and they range from wildly inaccurate to…there’s so much noise around it. But the truth is that we view this crew and this cast as family, and so we treat each other with respect, and that’s always been bedrock.”
A United Front on the Red Carpet
Despite the online rumors, Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour showed no signs of friction at the premiere event. The two actors, who play Eleven and Jim Hopper, arrived together, sharing laughs and a warm hug on the red carpet. Official Stranger Things social media accounts posted a video of their friendly reunion.
When speaking with reporters, both actors focused on their positive working relationship. Brown talked about their special bond, saying, “I’ve obviously had a really special bond with David because we have a father and daughter relationship, and we do every scene together. You really get to see that in season 5.”
David Harbour echoed this sentiment, telling outlets, “I adore her, and I’ve been proud to watch all them grow up and become great artists.”
A Decade-Long Working Relationship
The reported conflict stood in stark contrast to the relationship Brown and Harbour have publicly displayed over the years. They first started working together in 2015 when Brown was just 11 years old. Harbour has often spoken of a protective, fatherly feeling toward his younger co-star.
In a 2021 podcast appearance, Harbour reflected, “Millie and I have always had sort of a special relationship because I knew her when she was so young… I have a real protective feeling for her. I have a real, like, worry. I worry about her and the fame and all that she has to struggle with.”
Brown has similarly described Harbour as a father figure, calling him “a big teddy bear” in a 2016 interview and saying he was always looking out for her. In the past, she has also been open about the natural ups and downs of their close relationship, noting in 2018 that they would sometimes get angry with each other, much like a real father and daughter, and channel those raw emotions into their scenes.
Looking Toward the Final Season
The final season of Stranger Things is set to debut on November 26, 2025, with a unique three-part release schedule. The series finale will be released on December 31, 2025, and will also be shown in select theaters.
The show’s producers have maintained that the focus remains on delivering a satisfying conclusion to the global hit. Levy’s description of the reported stories as “wildly inaccurate” suggests the team is eager to move past the off-screen rumors and let the work speak for itself.
Also Read: Stranger Things Final Season Will Address Will’s Feelings for Mike
Credits: The Hollywood Reporter
