Millie Bobby Brown 'Faked' David Harbour Hug After Harassment Complaints: Report

On-screen, they are the unshakeable father-daughter duo of Stranger Things, the emotional centre of the entire series. Off-screen, David Harbour has often referred to Millie Bobby Brown as his 'on-screen daughter.' But a shocking new report alleges this carefully crafted public image is just that: an image.

Behind the scenes of the show's final season, tensions have reportedly escalated to the point of 'bullying and harassment' claims, culminating in a 'faked' joint appearance for the cameras at the show's star-studded final season premiere.

The 'Bullying and Harassment' Claims Plaguing Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour

According to reports from outlets like Radar Online and the Daily Mail, the conflict between the two stars is not a simple disagreement. Brown allegedly accused Harbour of 'bullying and harassment' while on the set of the Netflix series.

The claims were reportedly made before the show wrapped filming its fifth and final season in 2024.

The allegations are said to be extensive. Sources claim that Millie Bobby Brown filed 'pages and pages' of formal complaints against her co-star. This suggests the accusations go far beyond typical on-set friction and point to a serious breakdown in their working relationship.

This news has shocked fans who have watched the two actors' public bond develop over the nearly decade-long run of the show. While Harbour frequently described his paternal feelings for his co-star, Brown allegedly 'felt uncomfortable with his off-camera behaviour.'

The reports paint a picture of a young actress enduring a difficult work environment, a stark contrast to the loving family dynamic portrayed in the show.

A 'Pretended' Premiere: The PR Strategy for Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour

Despite these serious background tensions, the duo made a joint appearance at the recent Stranger Things Season 5 premiere in Los Angeles. On the red carpet, Brown and Harbour were seen 'hugging each other and posing for photos together,' presenting a united front to the world's media.

However, according to Radar Online, this display of affection was a charade. The outlet claims the co-stars 'pretended' to be close during interviews and other press appearances. This allegation is supported by PR expert Alexandria Hurley, who spoke to the outlet about the pressures of high-profile publicity.

'Promotional appearances and public dynamics are often not reflective of private working relationships — especially on high-stakes sets,' Hurley explained. 'Cast members are contractually obligated to participate in press, joint interviews, and branding moments that reinforce the on-screen bond.'

In this view, the smiles and hugs were not a sign of reconciliation, but a contractual obligation to protect the show's brand.

Resurfaced Doubts: A Clue from Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour?

Following the harassment reports, fans have unearthed a resurfaced MTV interview from March 2024 that now seems to show a crack in the facade. While promoting her film Damsel, Brown was asked about her upcoming wedding to her then-fiancé, now-husband, Jake Bongiovi.

The reporter jokes about Harbour officiating her wedding, a seemingly innocent nod to his 'father-figure' status. Brown's 'demeanour being shifted' is palpable. She gives a tight-lipped, awkward laugh before changing the subject, reportedly replying, 'I don't know how I feel [about that]. Sure.'

What may have seemed like a simple awkward moment at the time is now being viewed through a much darker lens. Fans point to this clip as potential evidence that the 'serious tensions' had been brewing for some time, long before they were made public. Brown's Stranger Things co-star Matthew Modine, who played her 'Papa', ultimately did officiate the ceremony.

The final premiere of Stranger Things was meant to be a celebration of its iconic legacy, but it may instead be remembered for the real-life drama playing out just beneath the surface. With 'pages and pages' of allegations and a red carpet appearance now viewed as a contractual performance, the beloved on-screen bond between Eleven and Hopper has been tragically complicated.