Millie Bobby Brown David Harbour — two names forever linked through Stranger Things — continue to capture hearts in 2025 as the hit Netflix series nears its long-awaited conclusion. Over nearly a decade, their bond has grown from co-stars to a true family-like friendship that fans adore both on and off-screen.
As of November 2025, both stars have been actively involved in wrapping up the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, a project that has defined much of their professional lives. Behind the cameras, Brown and Harbour maintain a heartfelt relationship that mirrors the powerful father-daughter connection between their characters, Eleven and Chief Jim Hopper.
Let’s take a closer look at the latest updates about Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour — from their emotional farewell to the show that made them global stars, to their current projects, and how their friendship continues to thrive beyond Hawkins.
The Powerful On-Screen Bond Between Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour
When Stranger Things premiered in 2016, Millie Bobby Brown was just 12 years old, and David Harbour was a respected character actor finally finding a breakout role. Their on-screen chemistry as Eleven and Hopper quickly became one of the emotional cornerstones of the series.
Hopper’s gruff but loving nature perfectly complemented Eleven’s innocence and vulnerability. Over the years, their evolving dynamic — from strangers to father and daughter — gave fans some of the most memorable moments in television history.
Scenes like Hopper teaching Eleven how to live a normal teenage life, or his tearful letter in Season 3, remain among the show’s most iconic moments. As the final season approaches, Harbour has teased that their relationship will come “full circle,” bringing closure to both characters in a deeply emotional way.
“The heart of the story has always been love,” Harbour said in a recent interview. “For Hopper and Eleven, that love — even through pain — defines who they are.”
Behind the Scenes: A Real-Life Family Dynamic
Off-screen, Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour share an equally warm relationship. Over the years, they’ve spoken about how their friendship developed from their very first day on set. Harbour has often described himself as a “protective father figure” to Brown, while she calls him her “on-set dad.”
In multiple interviews, Harbour has joked that he feels like a proud parent watching Brown grow from a child star into a global icon. “She was 12 when we met, and now she’s leading movies and building businesses,” he said. “It’s surreal and beautiful.”
Brown, now 21, has expressed her gratitude for Harbour’s mentorship and kindness throughout her career. “David taught me a lot — not just about acting, but about confidence and boundaries,” she said. “He always made me feel safe and supported.”
Their bond has remained strong through years of filming, red carpets, and public appearances. Fans often point to their playful interactions at award shows and behind-the-scenes footage as proof that their friendship is as genuine as it seems.
Stranger Things Season 5: The Final Chapter
The biggest Millie Bobby Brown David Harbour update this year revolves around the production of Stranger Things Season 5. After multiple delays caused by industry strikes and scheduling conflicts, filming resumed in early 2024. Now, with production nearly complete, Netflix has confirmed a 2025 release date.
This final season promises an epic conclusion to the supernatural saga that began in Hawkins, Indiana. Both Harbour and Brown have hinted that the emotional core of the story will focus heavily on Hopper and Eleven’s journey.
“There are huge moments for both of us,” Brown revealed in a recent interview. “It’s emotional, powerful, and everything we’ve been building toward for years.”
Netflix executives have described the finale as “bigger, darker, and more intimate than ever,” combining large-scale action with deeply human storytelling.
As Stranger Things approaches its conclusion, Harbour and Brown have expressed mixed emotions — pride for what they’ve achieved, and sadness at saying goodbye to the show that changed their lives.
Millie Bobby Brown’s Life and Career in 2025
While Stranger Things has been a major part of her life, Millie Bobby Brown has built a remarkable career beyond the series. In 2025, she stands as one of Hollywood’s most successful young entrepreneurs and actresses.
Her 2024 Netflix film Damsel became one of the platform’s most-watched original movies, earning praise for her portrayal of a courageous princess who saves herself rather than waiting for a hero. Brown’s performance marked another milestone in her transition from child star to leading actress.
Outside of acting, Brown’s business ventures continue to thrive. Her Florence by Mills beauty and skincare brand has expanded globally, focusing on sustainable, cruelty-free products designed for young consumers.
She also remains active in philanthropy, supporting causes related to children’s education, anti-bullying campaigns, and animal welfare. In 2023, she published her debut novel Nineteen Steps, inspired by her grandmother’s experiences during World War II — a project that received critical acclaim and showcased her talent beyond the screen.
In her personal life, Brown has been engaged to Jake Bongiovi, son of musician Jon Bon Jovi, since 2023. While she remains private about her relationship, she has shared that she values a “normal, grounded life” outside the spotlight.
David Harbour’s Expanding Career and Hollywood Success
David Harbour, now 50, continues to enjoy a thriving career thanks to Stranger Things and a series of blockbuster roles. In 2025, he reprises his Marvel role as Red Guardian in Thunderbolts, set to release next summer. His return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe is one of the most anticipated performances of the year.
Harbour has also earned praise for his versatility — balancing big-budget films with smaller, character-driven projects. His performances in Gran Turismo (2023) and the holiday action film Violent Night (2022) have solidified his reputation as a dynamic and charismatic actor.
Despite his Hollywood success, Harbour frequently acknowledges that Stranger Things changed everything for him. “Before Hopper, I was doing theater and small TV parts,” he said. “The show gave me a second life as an actor.”
He’s also been open about how his bond with Millie Bobby Brown helped him through challenging moments in his career. “She reminds me to stay curious and playful,” he said. “That’s something I never want to lose.”
The Legacy of Hopper and Eleven
The relationship between Hopper and Eleven is often cited as one of the most emotionally impactful dynamics in modern television. Fans see them not just as characters, but as symbols of unconditional love, healing, and family.
From Hopper’s letter in Season 3 to their emotional reunion in Season 4, their storylines have consistently delivered heartfelt moments that resonate deeply with audiences. As the final season approaches, fans are preparing for an emotional goodbye.
Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram are already filled with tributes, fan art, and messages celebrating their bond. Many fans say they “grew up with Hopper and Eleven,” viewing them as a reflection of their own family relationships.
Harbour has acknowledged the fan love, saying, “It’s rare to have a story that touches people like this. Millie and I both feel incredibly lucky to be part of something so meaningful.”
Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour Beyond Hawkins
Even after Stranger Things wraps, Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour’s friendship shows no signs of fading. They often attend premieres and award shows together, celebrating each other’s successes.
At the 2025 Critics Choice Awards, the two were seen sharing a heartfelt hug after Stranger Things won “Best Ensemble Cast.” Brown later posted a behind-the-scenes photo on Instagram with the caption, “Forever my Hopper.” Harbour responded playfully, “Always your dad, kid.”
Fans have expressed hopes that the duo might reunite in a future film or television project. Both actors have said they’d love to work together again, provided the right story comes along.
How Their Friendship Inspires Fans
Part of what makes the Millie Bobby Brown David Harbour friendship so special is how authentic it feels. Their connection represents a rare example of a genuine, intergenerational bond in Hollywood — one based on trust, admiration, and mutual respect.
For younger fans, their relationship serves as a model of mentorship and kindness. For older viewers, it highlights how chosen family relationships can be just as powerful as biological ones.
Both actors have used their platforms to speak about the importance of compassion, communication, and supporting others — values reflected in their real-life friendship.
What’s Next for Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour
As 2025 progresses, both Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour are stepping into exciting new phases of their careers. Brown is reportedly developing new film projects through her production company, PCMA Productions, which focuses on female-led storytelling.
Meanwhile, Harbour is exploring opportunities behind the camera, expressing interest in directing and producing. He also plans to continue his work in theater once Thunderbolts concludes its promotional tour.
Though Stranger Things is ending, their partnership — both personal and creative — will likely continue influencing future projects.
The bond between Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour has defined an era of television and left a lasting mark on audiences worldwide. As Stranger Things comes to a close, their friendship remains a powerful reminder of how storytelling can bring people together. What’s your favorite Hopper and Eleven moment? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation!