Recent reports detailing alleged bullying and harassment claims by Millie Bobby Brown against co-star David Harbour have prompted responses from the producers of Stranger Things. These claims, which surfaced before filming began on the show’s fifth and final season, have raised concerns about the show’s working environment and the treatment of its cast.
The Reported Claims
According to reports in The Daily Mail, Brown filed a lengthy complaint outlining what she described as Harbour’s “harassment and bullying.” Crucially, these accusations reportedly did not involve any allegations of sexual impropriety. An insider source claimed that the complaint contained “pages and pages of accusations” and that an investigation by Netflix ensued, lasting for several months.
During filming of the final season, Brown reportedly had a personal representative accompanying her on set at all times.
Producer Responses
The show’s producers, the Duffer brothers (Ross and Matt), and director and producer Shawn Levy, addressed the reports during the November 6 premiere of Stranger Things 5. While declining to discuss the specifics of the matter, they emphasized the importance of a safe and respectful working environment.
“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,” Ross Duffer stated. “Nothing matters more than just having a set where everyone feels safe and happy.”
Shawn Levy echoed this sentiment, stating that the production team strives “to create a respectful workplace where everyone feels comfortable and safe.” He added, “We did everything to build that environment. And we’re proud of the fact that we did so.” Levy further emphasized the view of the crew and cast as “family,” and underscored a commitment to treating each other with respect.
Harbour’s Perspective and Prior Relationship
David Harbour has previously spoken about his relationship with Millie Bobby Brown, acknowledging a protective feeling towards her, given that she was only 12 when the show began and has experienced rapid fame. He described their dynamic as a “father-daughter relationship” characterized by playful arguments and a willingness to voice concerns, both positive and negative.
Past Concerns on the Set
This isn’t the first time bullying accusations have surfaced regarding Stranger Things. In 2018, a crew member alleged witnessing instances of “verbal abuse” toward women by individuals holding “high positions of power” on the set. Though no names were mentioned, the Duffer brothers issued a statement acknowledging their disappointment about someone feeling uncomfortable and reiterating their commitment to providing a safe and collaborative environment. Netflix subsequently stated that their investigation found “no wrongdoing.”
While the outcome of the current investigation remains unknown, the situation highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining a positive and respectful environment on demanding television productions, particularly those involving young actors navigating a sudden rise to fame. The incident underscores the need for continuous vigilance and a commitment to ensuring the well-being of everyone involved in the show’s production.
