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Image Courtesy: Entertainment Weekly
Spoilers alert for 'Stranger Things,' Season Five, Volume 1!!
The Duffer Brothers, Matt and Ross Duffer, made an especially meaningful casting decision for 'Stranger Things' season 5 by bringing their former high school drama teacher into the final chapter of the series. After Volume 1 of the last season debuted, Ross Duffer explained on Instagram that they chose Hope Hynes Love for the role of Ms Harris because she played a significant role in shaping their teenage years.
Ross reflected that high school had been difficult for both brothers, but their teacher recognised potential in them long before they recognised it in themselves. Her support, he said, gave them the confidence not only to get through those challenging years but also to take the risk of moving to Los Angeles to pursue their creative ambitions. He also used the moment to acknowledge teachers who make an impact and encouraged renewed support for arts education in schools.
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Image Courtesy: The Hollywood Reporter
What is Duffer Brothers' Drama Teacher Doing in 'Stranger Things'?
In season five, Ms Harris is introduced as a teacher at Hawkins Elementary School and quickly becomes central to the unfolding danger. Her classroom—where Holly Wheeler, played by Nell Fisher, is a student—becomes a target of Vecna's influence. She is the first adult to see Holly speaking to an imaginary companion known as Mr Whatsit on the playground, a figure later revealed by Mike and Nancy to be Henry, also known as Vecna.
As the season progresses, Ms Harris joins military personnel at MAC-Z to help monitor the children during the crisis. When a Demogorgon attack occurs, she directs the kids to hide under the beds, but despite her efforts, they are ultimately captured by Vecna by the end of episode four, 'Sorcerer.'
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Image Courtesy: IMDb
Duffer Brothers' Emotions on Concluding 'Stranger Things'
As the Duffers approach the conclusion of the decade-long journey of 'Stranger Things,' they have acknowledged feeling a complex mix of excitement, nerves and sadness. Ross noted that they are eager to share the ending but also experiencing the emotional weight of closing a major chapter in their lives. Matt added that continuing to work on the final episodes has allowed them to delay the reality that the series is nearly finished.
Volume 1 of 'Stranger Things' season five is now streaming on Netflix. Volume 2 arrives on 25th December, followed by the series finale on 31st December, which will also premiere in select theatres.
