As Stranger Things prepares to air its highly anticipated final season, the series faces a storm of controversy. Millie Bobby Brown, now 21, has filed a formal harassment and bullying complaint against her co-star David Harbour, casting a shadow over the show’s conclusion and raising questions about on-set dynamics in one of television’s most beloved franchises.
A Fractured On-Screen Bond
For nearly a decade, viewers have been captivated by the father-daughter relationship between Harbour’s Jim Hopper and Brown’s Eleven. Their close on-screen bond became the emotional core of Stranger Things, with Harbour often describing his role as a “protector” and mentor to Brown. “I’ve just always felt this kind of deep fatherly affection for her,” Harbour said in a 2021 interview on That Scene with Dan Patrick podcast, reflecting on their dynamic as Brown navigated sudden global fame. “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.”
Yet, this carefully cultivated image is now under scrutiny. Brown’s complaint, reportedly containing “pages and pages of accusations,” details a pattern of harassment and bullying throughout their working relationship. While the allegations do not involve sexual misconduct, the specifics remain confidential, fueling speculation among fans and industry insiders about the true nature of the conflict.
Behind Closed Doors: The Investigation
Netflix launched an internal investigation into Brown’s claims before production on season five began in January 2024. The inquiry, which lasted several months, underscores the seriousness with which the studio treated the allegations. However, as of November 2025, Netflix has not released any findings or statements, leaving the public in the dark about what, if any, actions were taken.
Despite the ongoing investigation, production moved forward as scheduled. Filming wrapped on December 20, 2024, but not without significant changes: Brown insisted on having a personal legal representative present on set throughout the shoot—a rare measure in Hollywood productions that signals unresolved concerns about workplace safety and trust.
Early Signs
Hints of tension between Brown and Harbour surfaced as early as 2018. At PaleyFest that year, a then-14-year-old Brown remarked about their working relationship. At the time, her comments were dismissed as typical co-star friction. In hindsight, some fans and observers now see them as early indicators of deeper issues.
Brown’s decision to file a formal complaint while still under contract is unusual in the entertainment industry, where such grievances often emerge years after a project ends.
Divided Reactions and Lingering Questions
The allegations have split the Stranger Things fanbase. Some defend Harbour, citing his history of activism and public displays of kindness. Others support Brown, emphasizing the courage required to challenge a senior colleague.
Netflix’s decision to proceed with production, rather than delay or recast, highlights the immense financial and logistical pressures surrounding the show’s final season. With a global audience awaiting closure, the studio prioritized completion—yet at the cost of transparency. The lack of public findings from the investigation has left many questioning whether accountability or business interests ultimately prevailed.
Looking Ahead: Legacy and Implications
Stranger Things’ final season will be released in three volumes: Volume 1 with four episodes on November 26, 2025, Volume 2 with three episodes on December 25, 2025, and the series finale on December 31, 2025. As the premiere approaches, the controversy threatens to overshadow the show’s legacy. Audiences may now view Hopper and Eleven’s scenes through a more critical lens, and the absence of celebratory promotional events is palpable.
The unresolved nature of the allegations and Netflix’s silence raise broader questions about industry standards for protecting young actors and ensuring safe workplaces. For now, the conclusion of Stranger Things is no longer just a cultural milestone; it is a test of Hollywood’s willingness to confront uncomfortable truths behind the scenes.