David Harbour has publicly addressed a mental health crisis he experienced in late 2025, attributing part of the breakdown to media reports about his relationship with Stranger Things co-star Millie Bobby Brown. In an interview with Variety, the actor described the episode as a breakdown and disclosed that he has long struggled with mental health challenges, including periods of depression and mania.
Harbour's Experience with Mental Health
Harbour explained that such experiences can be difficult both for the individual and for those around them to understand. He noted that the situation was intensified by what he described as inaccurate media reports concerning his relationship with Brown. The reports alleged that Brown had raised concerns about his behavior during production of the final season of Stranger Things. According to Harbour, the coverage added significant stress during an already challenging period.
Relationship with Millie Bobby Brown
The actor acknowledged that he and Brown experienced disagreements over the course of their decade-long working relationship but emphasized that such moments were normal given the length of time they worked together. Harbour compared their dynamic to that of a family, noting that they always managed to resolve differences and maintain a strong bond.
Brown also addressed the relationship in comments to Variety, describing their partnership as increasingly collaborative over the years. She said they often challenged one another creatively and emotionally to achieve stronger performances on screen.
On-Screen and Off-Screen Bond
Harbour and Brown portrayed Jim Hopper and Eleven throughout Netflix’s hit sci-fi series, which concluded after five seasons. Their on-screen father-daughter relationship became one of the show's defining storylines. Despite the speculation surrounding their relationship, Harbour said the pair remain close and revealed they are already discussing future projects together. He added that the connection they developed during their years on Stranger Things remains intact.
