Tensions appear to be brewing behind the scenes of the hit Netflix series Stranger Things as the premiere of its highly anticipated fifth and final season approaches. Millie Bobby Brown, the 20-year-old actress who has portrayed Eleven since the show's debut in 2016, has reportedly filed a formal complaint against her co-star David Harbour, who plays Chief Jim Hopper. The complaint, alleging harassment and bullying, was submitted prior to the commencement of filming for the final season, which wrapped in December 2024.
According to The Daily Mail, Brown's complaint consisted of "pages and pages of accusations" against Harbour. The filing reportedly prompted an internal investigation that spanned several months. However, reports indicate that the accusations did not involve any allegations of sexual misconduct.
An unnamed source told The Daily Mail that Brown "filed a harassment and bullying claim before they started shooting the last season" and that the subsequent investigation "went on for months". In response to the complaint, Brown was allegedly accompanied by a personal representative on set throughout the production of season five to ensure her comfort and safety.
Neither Netflix nor representatives for Brown or Harbour have released any official statements regarding the reported complaint and investigation. Despite the alleged off-screen tensions, the on-screen relationship between Eleven and Hopper has been a central and emotionally resonant aspect of Stranger Things, with their dynamic often portraying a complex blend of affection and conflict.
In a 2018 panel appearance, Brown described her connection with Harbour as being "like father and daughter," acknowledging that their work together often led to emotional moments. Harbour has also spoken of his protective feelings for Brown, referring to her as "a special person" whom he has watched grow up in the public eye. In an interview given in October 2025, Brown is quoted as saying “David [Harbour, who plays Hopper] and I connected on another level. He always looked out for me, and I always annoyed him like a daughter or a younger sister. I was always trying to climb all over him and he was always rolling his eyes and laughing at me”.
The allegations against Harbour come at a time when the actor is already facing public scrutiny due to revelations about his personal life. His estranged wife, Lily Allen, recently released an album in which she detailed Harbour's alleged infidelity during their marriage. Allen's album reportedly describes finding text messages on Harbour's phone from another woman.
The timing of these allegations is particularly noteworthy, given the impending release of Stranger Things 5 on November 26, 2025. The final season is expected to draw significant viewership and mark the end of one of Netflix's most successful and culturally impactful series.
The reported conflict between Brown and Harbour has sparked considerable discussion among fans, with many expressing surprise and concern over the allegations. Some fans have noted that Brown and Harbour still follow each other on Instagram. As of now, the full impact of these allegations on the promotion and reception of Stranger Things 5 remains to be seen.
