David Harbour is facing the most serious crisis of his career.
The Stranger Things star, best known for playing Eleven’s adoptive father Jim Hopper, is reportedly under intense scrutiny following allegations of bullying and harassment made by his co-star Millie Bobby Brown. According to multiple sources, the accusations—while not involving sexual misconduct—were significant enough to trigger internal action behind the scenes at Netflix.
Insiders claim that Brown, now 21, filed detailed complaints with the streaming giant ahead of production on the show’s final season, which began filming in January 2022. Sources say Harbour, 50, was subjected to an internal investigation and that Brown had legal representation present on set during filming—an unusual and telling step.
Neither Netflix, Harbour, nor Brown has publicly commented on the claims.
Behind the scenes, however, the situation is reportedly dire. “This is a nightmare scenario,” an industry source said. “David is incredibly ambitious, and this kind of scandal—especially involving Millie—could be career-ending. With the final season approaching, the timing couldn’t be worse for him or for Netflix.”
The optics alone are damaging. Harbour’s character is positioned as a protective father figure on the show, and fans have long been fiercely protective of Brown, who grew up in the public eye. “Any allegation of bullying hits especially hard,” the source added. “Public opinion has turned fast.”
According to insiders, Harbour vehemently denies the accusations and believes they’re unfounded. Still, he’s said to be deeply rattled by the fallout. “This has opened a Pandora’s box,” the source explained. “If more people come forward, it could get incredibly messy. He knows he’s dangerously close to being canceled.”
Complicating matters further is the recent release of ex-wife Lily Allen’s new album—her first in seven years. Allen, 40, and Harbour married in 2020 before announcing their split in February 2023. Several tracks on the album have sparked speculation that they reference Harbour’s alleged relationship with a Netflix costume designer, Natalie Tippett.
Sources say Harbour fears the album’s release—and its timing—has intensified scrutiny around him. “He feels like everything is hitting at once,” an insider claimed. “Between the allegations and Lily’s music, he believes his reputation is being dismantled in real time.”
The former couple have reportedly listed their Brooklyn townhouse for $8 million, and questions remain about Harbour’s future relationship with Allen’s daughters, Ethel and Marnie. When asked about it, Allen offered a pointed response: “You’ll have to ask him.”
Despite being seen publicly with the girls during a recent trip to Universal Orlando Resort, sources say Harbour is struggling privately. “He’s barely sleeping or eating,” the insider said. “He’s putting on a brave face, but behind closed doors, he’s devastated.”
Harbour has taken advice from his team to remain silent for now, hoping the controversy will subside. While he still has supporters within the Stranger Things cast and the broader acting community, the backlash has been swift and unforgiving.
“Even if he clears his name, the damage may already be done,” the source said. “His future in Hollywood is hanging by a thread.”
