Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour showcased a strong bond at the “Stranger Things” Season 5 world premiere in Los Angeles, countering recent allegations of bullying and harassment. Their united appearance and positive remarks underscored the show’s familial atmosphere, as producers addressed the claims with assurances of a safe working environment.
The highly anticipated premiere of “Stranger Things” Season 5 took place on November 6, 2025, at the TLC Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, drawing attention not only for the final season’s debut but also for the off-screen dynamics between its stars. Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour, who play Eleven and Hopper, respectively, were at the center of media scrutiny following reports of bullying claims filed by Brown against Harbour. Despite the controversy, the actors appeared together on the red carpet, smiling and posing for photographs, which many interpreted as a deliberate effort to dispel rumors of a feud.
During press interactions, Brown emphasized her special relationship with Harbour, describing it as a father-daughter bond that has deepened over the years. She told Entertainment Tonight, “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.” This sentiment was echoed by Harbour, who expressed his admiration and protective feelings towards Brown, highlighting their long-standing connection since the show’s inception.
Harbour further elaborated on their relationship in interviews, stating to ET, “I adore her, and I’ve been proud to watch all them grow up and become great artists. I doubt it will be the last time we’ll see each other in this world or work together.” His comments reinforced the idea that any past issues had been resolved or were misrepresented, as both actors focused on the positive aspects of their collaboration and the significance of the series finale.
The bullying claims originated from a Daily Mail report on November 1, 2025, which alleged that Brown had filed a harassment and bullying complaint against Harbour before filming began for the final season. According to the report, the investigation spanned months and involved detailed accusations, though specifics were not disclosed. This news sparked widespread speculation about tensions on set, making the premiere a pivotal moment for addressing the narrative.
In response to the allegations, “Stranger Things” creators and producers addressed the media at the premiere. Matt Duffer, co-creator, told The Hollywood Reporter, “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.” He emphasized the importance of a safe and happy set, aligning with the show’s values.
Executive producer Shawn Levy also commented, stating to THR, “At the end of the day, that’s the job. You have to create a respectful workplace where everyone feels comfortable and safe, and so we did everything to build that environment. And we’re proud of the fact that we did so.” Levy dismissed much of the media coverage as “wildly inaccurate” and reaffirmed the cast and crew’s familial bond, which has been a cornerstone of the production.
The premiere event not only served as a celebration of the series’ conclusion but also as a platform to address and mitigate the impact of the bullying claims. Brown and Harbour’s visible camaraderie, combined with the producers’ assurances, aimed to reassure fans and the public about the show’s integrity. As “Stranger Things” wraps up, the focus remains on its legacy and the relationships forged over a decade of storytelling.
