The highly anticipated Season 5 premiere of Netflix’s Stranger Things came with more than just excitement for fans—it also spotlighted behind-the-scenes drama involving stars Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour.

Now the new reports have confirmed that Brown indeed filed a complaint against his co-star for bullying and harassment. Interestingly, industry insiders suggest that the Stranger Things Season 5 premiere may have been strategically planned as a form of damage control for Harbour, ensuring the show’s biggest stars appeared united for fans and the media.

During the Los Angeles premiere on November 6, 2025, Harbour and Brown were all smiles on the red carpet. The duo hugged, took selfies with fans, and shared playful moments that seemed to signal unity. Brown praised Harbour in interviews, calling their relationship “special,” while Harbour reciprocated, expressing pride in watching the cast grow as artists.

Netflix Investigated Brown’s Complaint Against David Harbour

The timing of their camaraderie was notable. Just days earlier, the U.K.’s Daily Mail reported that Brown had filed a complaint against Harbour. Neither actor publicly commented on the allegations at the premiere, and Harbour limited media interactions, speaking only to Entertainment Tonight.

Multiple reports have now confirmed that Millie Bobby Brown filed harassment claims against David Harbour. Sources familiar with the situation confirmed to Variety that Netflix investigated Brown’s complaint. While details of the investigation were not publicly disclosed, it was ultimately resolved. The actors continue to share multiple key scenes in Season 5, maintaining their on-screen father-daughter dynamic.

Netflix’s Damage Control Strategy

PR experts told Variety that the red carpet choreography and the full cast’s appearance on stage before the first screening were deliberate strategies to convey a united front. The goal, according to one crisis PR executive, was to “make it no worse” and emphasize that the show’s success is bigger than any single star.

Netflix amplified this image by sharing videos of Harbour and Brown interacting with fans. Social media responses suggested that fans perceived the reports of conflict as overblown. Photos from the after-party further reinforced the narrative of harmony, portraying both stars as friendly and collaborative.

Stranger Things Creators Address the Controversy

Representatives for Brown, Harbour, and Netflix did not respond to requests for comment. However, the Duffer Brothers and executive producer Shawn Levy addressed the controversy at the premiere.

While talking to The Hollywood Reporter, Matt Duffer was asked about Brown’s complaint. He said,

“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. So, you know, nothing matters more than just having a set where everyone feels safe and happy.”

On the other hand, Shawn Levy said that the news reports circulating are inaccurate.

“I’ve read a bunch of stories and they range from wildly inaccurate to … there’s so much noise around it. But the truth is that we view this crew and this cast as family, and so we treat each other with respect, and that’s always been bedrock.”

The timing of Brown’s complaint coincided with Harbour’s highly publicized divorce from singer Lily Allen. Allen’s album, West End Girl, detailed the emotional fallout from their split, which added fuel to media coverage of Harbour’s personal life. Industry observers note that the complaint against Harbour and the premiere’s strategic presentation were intertwined with wider narratives surrounding his public image.

While Brown’s complaint against David Harbour could have overshadowed Stranger Things Season 5, Netflix appears to have successfully managed the optics. By highlighting the actors’ camaraderie and presenting a united cast, the premiere helped keep the focus on the show and its long-awaited final season.

Stranger Things 5 Volume 1 premieres on November 26, 2025—but some lucky fans have the chance to catch the first episode two weeks early. You can find out more information on how to watch it ahead of time here.