Stranger Things: David Harbour Reveals Cast Reaction to Series Finale Script (Exclusive)

As a gamer who’s been through countless campaigns and virtual worlds, I can honestly say that the final season of Stranger Things feels like the epic quest to end all quests. The anticipation is reminiscent of waiting for that rare legendary loot drop or the perfect moment to strike in a multiplayer battle.

The final installment of “Stranger Things” is still under development by Netflix and the Duffer Brothers, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the long-awaited conclusion that started over two years ago. As of now, there’s no set release date for Season 5, but it appears that the cast and team are closing in on the finish line. It seems like the journey to the end has been an emotional ride for everyone involved, with its share of ups and downs.

In a recent chat with David Harbour, famously known for his role as Jim Hopper in Stranger Things, ComicBook discussed his career and his duties as BoxLunch’s Giving Ambassador. When the subject of Stranger Things 5 was brought up, Harbour shared warm memories about the series finale table read, describing it as a very personal moment for his television family.

Harbour explained to us that even though there were cameras present, it wasn’t for the benefit of publicists or social media influencers. Instead, he said, there was an intimate feel to how everything was arranged, which he hopes isn’t overly visible because it carried a profound message. This message revolved around the cast being like a family who have worked together for nine years since they were children. This underlying theme of shared history was palpable, and it manifested in a deep sense of honesty, heartbreak, and bittersweet feelings throughout the entire production.

Beyond the feelings stirred by realizing that the fifth season of Stranger Things marks its conclusion, there was also a sense of emotional release when Harbour and the ensemble reunited to begin filming. For much of Season 4, he and Winona Ryder were apart from the rest of the cast, as Hopper was engrossed in breaking free from a Russian prison.

Season 4 presented several difficulties, primarily due to COVID-19 and its impact on our industry as we deal with interpersonal relationships. Being an industry focused on intimacy, the use of masks, face shields, and fear among cast members were particularly challenging. Moreover, I had to undergo some unusual weight loss measures which added to my struggles. However, being alone allowed me a sort of break, as it was necessary at times. It felt like a family, so a brief separation was almost refreshing. I also had interesting storylines with actors like Tom (Wlaschiha), making the experience enjoyable overall.

As I find myself back in Hawkins, Indiana for Season 5, it’s not just the familiar faces of my fellow cast members that I’m battling alongside against Vecna and the Upside Down. This final stand is oddly surreal for me because it’s starkly apparent how much has evolved since our very first season’s production almost a decade ago.

Reflecting on reuniting with the original cast for this final season, it’s been quite a journey because the show has evolved significantly since its debut in Season 1, he noted. This transformation seems extraordinary to us all. After all, these actors were just kids when we began – around 11 or 12 years old. Now they’re young adults, shaving, and no longer children. Finn Wolfhard recently directed a movie! To witness everything returning to its roots… We recently read through the last episode, and let me tell you, there was an incredible amount of emotion, even tears from grown-ups. The episode is moving, but there’s also a deeper layer – this was their childhood. They were 11 years old when they started, and over time, they battled the monster that was Stranger Things. I have never seen so much raw, intense crying from teenagers or young adults in my life.

2024-09-17 20:12

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