Millie Bobby Brown has directly addressed the swirling rumors about her relationship with David Harbour from Stranger Things, clarifying their status ahead of the show’s highly anticipated fifth season. Recent reports had suggested tension between the co-stars, but Brown emphasized the strength of their bond, putting the focus back on their close connection in the context of the David Harbour Stranger Things relationship.
Allegations Surface Ahead of New Season
In the lead-up to Stranger Things Season 5, The Daily Mail published claims that Brown filed a complaint against David Harbour regarding alleged bullying before production began. The report implied that the situation was so serious that a representative was assigned to accompany Brown during filming. However, these allegations were not confirmed by official sources and were under scrutiny.
Brown and Harbour Display Unity at the Premiere
When the Season 5 premiere took place in early November, any speculation about a rift between the two stars was quickly challenged. Brown and Harbour appeared visibly close during the public event, expressing genuine appreciation for their on-screen father-daughter relationship. Brown later provided further insight into why this open display was important during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
“We’ve been doing that for the last 10 years. I mean, we have always been united in that. We love this show with everything, and we value our friendship more than anything.”
– Millie Bobby Brown, actress
Reflecting on Their Working Relationship
Discussing her experiences during the new season, Brown described the process of filming with Harbour as profoundly nostalgic. She referenced working closely with him during previous seasons, drawing comparisons between their evolving characters and their off-screen rapport.
“It was quite nostalgic because it reminded me so much of season two and three, where we’re both kind of butting heads and she’s growing up, she’s trying to find her own voice, and he’s trying to parent, and that dynamic definitely comes back into play once again, and I’m really excited for people to see that. And I think some of people’s favorite scenes of Eleven are Ele and [Hopper], so I’m really excited to have that come to screen once again.”
– Millie Bobby Brown, actress
Mutual Admiration Between Co-Stars
On the night of the premiere, both stars continued to highlight their positive relationship. In a conversation with Entertainment Tonight, Brown expressed gratitude for her time with Harbour and the rest of the cast, noting the special dynamics that have developed since the show’s beginning.
“It’s been so special to have [Harbour] along the journey for me. Winona [Ryder], the kids. I obviously have a really special bond with David, because we have a father-daughter relationship, and we do every scene together. And you really get to see that in Season 5. So I’m really honored to have played Eleven, and to have met such amazing people along the way.”
– Millie Bobby Brown, actress
David Harbour also spoke warmly about Brown and the Stranger Things cast in what Variety reported as his only interview during the event.
“Yeah, I mean, you know, I adore her, and I’ve been proud to watch all of them grow up and become such great artists. […] But this particular family and this particular project [have] been so special, and we’ve gotten to know each other so deeply.”
– David Harbour, actor
Clarification and Resolution of Past Reports
Despite the earlier allegations, executive producer Shawn Levy publicly dismissed the complaints, yet Variety noted that an investigation involving Harbour did occur and was ultimately resolved. Public relations experts discussed with Variety indicated that the public displays of affection from Brown and Harbour at the premiere may have been intended to address and move past the controversy.
What’s Next for Stranger Things and Its Cast
Following the release of Chapter 1 of Season 5 on November 26, audiences have been eager to witness the renewed on-screen partnership between Brown and Harbour. Chapter 2 is scheduled for release on December 25, with the series finale set to follow on December 25, 2025. As Stranger Things heads toward its conclusion, the authenticity of the David Harbour Stranger Things relationship remains in the spotlight, reinforcing the show’s enduring appeal and the genuine bonds formed behind the scenes among the cast, including Winona Ryder and other key figures.
