Millie Bobby Brown has publicly addressed swirling rumours concerning her relationship with Stranger Things co-star David Harbour, firmly stating that she values their friendship more than anything.
Addressing the Speculation
The speculation began after reports emerged, notably from The Daily Mail, alleging that the 21-year-old actress had filed a formal harassment and bullying claim against Harbour, 50, before filming commenced on the show's fifth and final season. A friend of Harbour's ex, Lily Allen, was quoted saying, Millie Bobby Brown filed a harassment and bullying claim before they started shooting the last season. There were pages and pages of accusations. The investigation went on for months.
Neither Brown nor Harbour has directly commented on this specific report. However, the pair presented a united front at the world premiere for Stranger Things season five earlier in November. When questioned about the importance of their solidarity, Brown responded, We've been doing that for the last 10 years.
A Decade-Long On-Screen Bond
Brown, who plays the supernaturally gifted Eleven, and Harbour, who portrays her on-screen father Jim Hopper, have shared a pivotal dynamic on the hit Netflix series for nearly a decade. Elaborating on their connection, Brown told The Hollywood Reporter, We have always been united in that. We love this show with everything, and we value our friendship more than anything.
She also expressed excitement about revisiting their characters' compelling dynamic in the final season, which she described as quite nostalgic. It reminded me so much of season two and three, Brown explained, 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.
Production's Stance and Final Season Release
The show's creators, brothers Matt and Ross Duffer, were also pressed on the bullying allegations. While declining to discuss personal on-set matters, they provided a supportive statement to 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. They emphasised that nothing matters more than just having a set where everyone feels safe and happy.
This news comes as Stranger Things Season 5, Part One, consisting of four episodes, debuted on Netflix in the UK on Thursday, November 27 at 1am. The release schedule continues with another three episodes on December 26 at 1am, culminating with the final episode on New Year's Day at 1am.
The synopsis for the final season sets a dramatic scene for the beloved characters: The fall of 1987. Hawkins is scarred by the opening of the Rifts, and our heroes are united by a single goal: find and kill Vecna. It promises a final battle against a darkness more powerful and more deadly than anything they've faced before, requiring the full party — standing together, one last time.
