Millie Bobby Brown Lawsuit Update, “Stranger Things” Star Filed “Pages and Pages” Against On-Screen Dad—What We Know About the Netflix Investigation

In March 2024, during a press interview for “Damsel,” Millie Bobby Brown was asked if David Harbour would officiate her wedding to Jake Bongiovi. She frowned, laughed awkwardly, and said, “Yes… I don’t know how I feel.” Then she changed her answer: “Sure. Matthew Modine, I think”—the actor who plays her abusive on-screen father in “Stranger Things.” Fans thought it was a joke. Eight months later, they learned Brown had filed “pages and pages” of harassment and bullying accusations against Harbour.

Millie Bobby Brown, 21, filed a formal harassment and bullying complaint against “Stranger Things” co-star David Harbour, 50, before Season 5 filming began in 2024. The Daily Mail exclusively reported November 2, 2025, that Brown submitted extensive accusations triggering a months-long Netflix internal investigation. Director Shawn Levy called circulating reports “wildly inaccurate,” while Deadline confirmed November 16, 2025, the complaint was filed but may have occurred “earlier in the series’ run.” The investigation concluded with no lawsuit filed in any court—it remained an internal Netflix workplace matter with no sexual misconduct allegations. Brown and Harbour reunited at the November 7, 2025 premiere, appearing cordial.

What Is the Millie Bobby Brown Lawsuit About?

Critical Clarification: No lawsuit exists in any court. This is an internal Netflix workplace complaint, not a legal lawsuit.

The Daily Mail reported November 2, 2025, that Brown filed a harassment and bullying claim against Harbour before “Stranger Things” Season 5 production began.

A source told the publication: “Millie Bobby Brown filed a harassment and bullying claim before they started shooting the last season. There were pages and pages of accusations. The investigation went on for months.”

The allegations reportedly involved:

• Bullying behavior on set
• Harassment creating an uncomfortable work environment
• Emotional distress during production
• No sexual misconduct claims

The Reality Behind the Allegations

Brown began working with Harbour in 2016 when she was 12 years old and he was 41. Their characters—Eleven and Jim Hopper—share a father-daughter bond central to “Stranger Things.”

The power dynamic was inherently unequal: a child actor working with an adult co-star for nearly a decade.

Timeline reveals complicated on-set dynamics:

2016: “Stranger Things” premieres; Brown is 12
2018: Brown describes on-set tension during Season 3 filming
2021: Harbour expresses protective feelings toward Brown in interviews
Before 2024: Brown files internal complaint (exact timing disputed)
2024: Netflix investigation concludes; matter resolved
November 1, 2025: Daily Mail publishes report
November 6, 2025: Brown and Harbour reunite at premiere

Variety confirmed to media outlets that an investigation occurred and “the matter was resolved.”

Which Parties Are Affected?

Complainant:
Millie Bobby Brown, actress, age 21
Role: Eleven/Jane Hopper in “Stranger Things” (2016-2025)

Subject of Complaint:
David Harbour, actor, age 50
Role: Jim Hopper in “Stranger Things” (2016-2025)

Employer/Investigator:
Netflix

Production:
“Stranger Things” Season 5 (final season)

Others Involved:

• The Duffer Brothers (creators/showrunners)
• Shawn Levy (director/executive producer)
• Lily Allen (Harbour’s ex-wife, divorced December 2024)

What the Complaint Allegedly Contains

According to media reports citing unnamed sources:

Nature of Allegations:

• Harassment (non-sexual)
• Bullying behavior
• Creating uncomfortable work environment
• Emotional control or manipulation
• Persistent behavior causing distress

Scale: “Pages and pages of accusations” according to Daily Mail source

Investigation Duration: “Months,” per the same source

Result: Investigation concluded before November 2025 premiere
Matter “was dealt with” according to Deadline sources

Netflix’s Response

Netflix declined to publicly comment on the investigation details.

A Netflix source told media: “It will be a theatrical event… Nothing is going to overshadow this,” referring to the Season 5 premiere.

The streaming giant implemented new protocols:

✅ Brown accompanied by personal representative on set during Season 5 filming
✅ Enhanced workplace safety policies
✅ Additional oversight during production

These measures suggest Netflix took the complaint seriously even if details remain confidential.

David Harbour’s Response

Harbour has not publicly addressed the allegations.

At the November 6 Los Angeles premiere, Harbour avoided discussing the matter. He appeared alongside Brown for photos and fan interactions, presenting a united front.

Sources close to Harbour told media he feels “furious at essentially being accused of being this skirt chasing ‘monster,'” though this appears to reference separate allegations stemming from his ex-wife Lily Allen’s album about their marriage.

The Duffer Brothers’ Response

Ross Duffer told The Hollywood Reporter at the November 6 premiere:

“Obviously, you understand I can’t get into personal on-set matters, but I will say we’ve been doing this for 10 years with this cast, and at this point they’re family and we deeply care about them.”

The statement acknowledges the situation exists while maintaining confidentiality.

Shawn Levy’s Response

Director Shawn Levy called circulating reports about the complaint “wildly inaccurate” at the November 6 premiere.

Levy didn’t specify which aspects were inaccurate or provide alternative details.

Millie Bobby Brown’s Public Statements

Brown has not directly addressed the complaint publicly.

However, in December 2025 interviews promoting Season 5, Brown described her relationship with Harbour as “great.”

She told media she felt “safe on set” during production—a carefully worded statement that acknowledges safety was a consideration.

In past interviews, Brown described working with Harbour as bringing her “A game because she knows he brings it back.”

Current Status of the Investigation

Status: Investigation concluded before November 2025

Outcome: Matter “was dealt with” and “there haven’t been issues since,” according to Deadline sources

Timeline Dispute:

• Daily Mail: Complaint filed before Season 5 filming (2024)
• Deadline: Suggested complaint may have occurred “earlier in the series’ run” (potentially 2018-2021)

No Court Case:
Public records searches reveal no civil lawsuit filed by Brown against Harbour in California or federal courts. This remained an internal Netflix HR matter.

Current Relationship:
Brown and Harbour appeared together at November 7 premiere, posed for photos, and interacted cordially with fans.

Evidence and Context

The Resurfaced Interview:

The March 2024 MTV interview where Brown appeared uncomfortable discussing Harbour officiating her wedding gained new significance after the complaint became public.

Her immediate frown, awkward pause, and decision to name Matthew Modine (who plays her abusive on-screen father) instead now appears potentially meaningful rather than humorous.

Lily Allen’s Album:

Harbour’s ex-wife released “West End Girl” on October 24, 2025, detailing their marriage’s collapse with references to infidelity and sex addiction.

Allen described the Netflix investigation as “brutal” and said she “supported him throughout.”

The convergence of workplace allegations and public relationship drama intensified scrutiny on Harbour as “Stranger Things” approached its finale.

Protective Measures:

Netflix requiring Brown be accompanied by a personal representative during Season 5 filming signals the company took her concerns seriously and implemented safeguards.

What Laws Apply?

Though no court case exists, the complaint falls under:

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964:
Prohibits workplace harassment and hostile work environments

California Labor Code:
Protects workers from harassment, discrimination, and unsafe conditions

Entertainment Industry Standards:
SAG-AFTRA rules protecting actors’ working conditions

Netflix Internal Policies:
Workplace conduct codes and harassment prevention protocols

According to a 2024 EEOC report, one in three workplace complaints now involves non-physical harassment such as verbal bullying or exclusion—issues that mirror the allegations in this case.

Similar Entertainment Industry Cases

Joss Whedon/Justice League (2021):
Ray Fisher accused director of abusive behavior; WarnerMedia investigation concluded

Ellen DeGeneres/Ellen Show (2020):
Multiple staff complaints of toxic workplace led to internal investigation and firings

Scott Rudin/Broadway (2021):
Producer accused of abusive behavior; stepped back from productions after exposés

Lea Michele/Glee (2020):
Co-stars accused her of making set “a living hell”; Michele apologized publicly

These cases share common elements: power imbalances, years of alleged behavior, internal investigations, and industry-wide reckoning with workplace conduct.

What Legal Experts Say

Employment law experts note internal investigations protect both parties’ privacy while addressing workplace concerns.

Attorney Sarah Klein, JD: “Netflix’s decision to investigate internally rather than dismiss Brown’s concerns shows evolving industry standards. The fact that a personal representative accompanied her during filming signals the company took meaningful action.”

Legal observers point out that Brown’s young age when the working relationship began (12 years old) creates unique duty-of-care considerations for Netflix and the production.

Entertainment lawyers note that no-comment settlements and resolved internal investigations are common in Hollywood to protect productions and maintain professional relationships.

Do You Qualify for Any Compensation?

No. This was a private internal Netflix investigation, not a class-action lawsuit offering compensation to third parties.

Only the parties directly involved (Brown, Harbour, Netflix) were part of the investigation and any resulting resolution.

Timeline of Developments

2016: “Stranger Things” premieres; Brown age 12, Harbour age 41

2016-2023: Nine-year working relationship develops

2018: Brown describes on-set tension in interviews during Season 3

Before 2024: Brown reportedly files internal complaint (exact timing disputed between sources)

2024: Netflix conducts months-long investigation
2024: Investigation concludes; matter resolved
2024: Brown accompanied by personal representative during Season 5 filming

October 24, 2025: Lily Allen releases divorce album referencing “brutal” investigation

November 2, 2025: Daily Mail exclusively reports complaint details

November 6, 2025: Production responds at Los Angeles premiere
November 6, 2025: Brown and Harbour appear together publicly

November 7, 2025: Season 5 Los Angeles premiere

November 16, 2025: Deadline provides additional context suggesting earlier timeline

November 26, 2025: Season 5 Volume 1 releases

December 25, 2025: Season 5 Volume 2 releases

December 31, 2025: Theatrical finale scheduled

What to Expect Next

Short Term:

“Stranger Things” Season 5 promotional tour continues through December 2025. Brown and Harbour likely to make additional joint appearances.

Medium Term:

Neither Brown nor Harbour expected to provide detailed public statements given the matter was resolved internally.

Netflix unlikely to release investigation findings due to privacy and employment law considerations.

Long Term:

The case highlights evolving standards for protecting young actors in long-running productions.

Industry likely to implement stronger safeguards for child actors working with adult co-stars over extended periods.

Brown’s willingness to file a complaint—and Netflix’s response—may encourage other young actors to report concerns.

Broader Implications

For Child Actors:

Brown started in the industry at 10 years old and grew up in front of the world. Her case demonstrates that even successful, celebrated young actors can experience workplace issues.

The situation highlights complex dynamics when child actors work closely with adult co-stars over extended periods.

For Productions:

Netflix’s response—conducting a thorough investigation and implementing protective measures—sets a standard for how entertainment companies should handle internal complaints.

For the Industry:

The #MeToo movement and subsequent cultural shifts have created environments where younger actors feel empowered to demand accountability, not just endure fame.

One in three workplace complaints now involves non-physical harassment. Hollywood is part of this broader workplace evolution.

Your Rights as a Worker

While this case doesn’t involve you personally, it illustrates important workplace protections:

✅ You have the right to a harassment-free workplace—regardless of your role or industry

✅ Document patterns of intimidation, bullying, or verbal abuse

✅ Know your state laws—many go further than federal rules

✅ Employers must investigate complaints and take corrective action

✅ Agencies like the EEOC can intervene if employers fail to act

What’s playing out on Netflix’s biggest stage reminds us that the law protects dignity at work—whether you’re on a film set or in a cubicle.

FAQ: Millie Bobby Brown Complaint

Q: Did Millie Bobby Brown sue David Harbour?

No. Brown filed an internal workplace complaint with Netflix, not a lawsuit in court. No civil case exists in public records.

Q: What did Millie Bobby Brown accuse David Harbour of?

Reports indicate harassment and bullying (non-sexual) creating an uncomfortable work environment. Specific details remain confidential per Netflix’s internal investigation policies.

Q: Was the investigation resolved?

Yes. Deadline reported the matter “was dealt with, and there haven’t been issues since.” The investigation concluded before the November 2025 premiere.

Q: Are Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour still working together?

Yes. They appeared together at the November 7, 2025 premiere and promoted Season 5 jointly. The show’s final season is releasing December 2025.

Q: Did David Harbour respond to the allegations?

Not publicly. Harbour has not issued a statement about the complaint.

Q: What did Netflix do about the complaint?

Netflix conducted a months-long investigation and required Brown be accompanied by a personal representative during Season 5 filming. The company declined to comment publicly on details.

Q: When did the alleged harassment occur?

Timeline is disputed. Daily Mail suggests before Season 5 filming (2024); Deadline suggests potentially “earlier in the series’ run” (2018-2021 possible).

Q: Why are they appearing together if she filed a complaint?

Professional obligations and Netflix’s resolution of the matter allow them to work together. Many workplace complaints are resolved internally without ending professional relationships.

Q: Can I file a similar complaint at my job?

Yes. All U.S. workers have the right to report harassment or bullying. Document incidents, report to HR or management, and if your employer fails to act, contact the EEOC or state labor board.

Q: Will we ever know the full details?

Unlikely. Internal workplace investigations typically remain confidential to protect all parties’ privacy and comply with employment laws.

Q: Is this why Millie Bobby Brown looked uncomfortable in that interview?

Possibly. The March 2024 interview where Brown appeared uncomfortable discussing Harbour occurred around the time the complaint was reportedly filed, but we can’t confirm causation.

Q: What happened with Lily Allen and David Harbour?

Harbour’s ex-wife Lily Allen released a divorce album in October 2025 about their marriage, which ended December 2024. Allen referenced the “brutal” Netflix investigation and said she supported Harbour throughout. This is separate from the Brown complaint.

Q: How old was Millie Bobby Brown when “Stranger Things” started?

12 years old. She’s now 21. The show spanned nearly a decade of her life, from childhood through early adulthood.

Q: Will this affect “Stranger Things” Season 5?

Netflix sources indicated “Nothing is going to overshadow this,” referring to the finale. The show released on schedule despite the controversy.

Q: Should I boycott “Stranger Things”?

That’s a personal decision. The complaint was investigated and resolved. Both parties continue working on the show.

Key Takeaways

✅ No lawsuit exists—this was an internal Netflix investigation

✅ Investigation concluded—matter resolved before November 2025 premiere

✅ Brown and Harbour appeared together publicly, suggesting professional resolution

✅ Netflix implemented protections—personal representative accompanied Brown during filming

✅ No public details—specifics remain confidential per employment law

✅ Industry implications—highlights need for protecting young actors in long-term productions

This article is based on media reports from the Daily Mail, Deadline, Variety, and other outlets covering the internal Netflix investigation. No court documents exist as no lawsuit was filed. Information current as of December 27, 2025.

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

About the Author

Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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