Stranger Things actor David Harbour expressed his surprise at the announcement of Linda Hamilton joining the cast of the Netflix series, given the ongoing uncertainty caused by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike.
In a conversation with NME regarding the progress of Stranger Things’ fifth and final season, Harbour discussed Hamilton’s inclusion, which was confirmed in June during TUDUM. Harbour found the news intriguing due to the implications of the writers’ strike, which has resulted in the suspension of Season 5 production. He remarked, “It surprised me when they announced that, because I know that this writers’ strike has not come to a deal yet. And I think they’re committed to not shooting until they do reach a deal.”
Linda Hamilton, renowned for her role in the Terminator film franchise as Sarah Connor, joined the Stranger Things cast in an undisclosed capacity shortly after the WGA strike began on May 2. This strike emerged when the writers’ union halted contractual negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Pictures and Television Producers (AMPTP). Subsequently, production for Season 5 of Stranger Things came to a halt. Concurrently, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strike further muddied the waters, leaving the resumption of Season 5 uncertain. Despite the challenges, Harbour is eagerly awaiting the green light, describing the imminent sprint to the finish line as both thrilling and euphoric.
Linda Hamilton’s addition to the cast signals an intriguing turn for the series. Known for her roles in Terminator films, as well as appearances in acclaimed TV shows like Beauty and the Beast, Weeds, and Claws, Hamilton brings a wealth of experience to Stranger Things. The decision to cast her in Season 5 came after the show’s co-creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, stated last August that no new characters would feature in the upcoming season.
The End of Stranger Things
Stranger Things fans can anticipate Harbour reprising his significant role as Jim Hopper, the chief of the Hawkins Police Department. He will be joined by co-star Winona Ryder, who plays Joyce Byers. Both actors are poised for substantial compensation for their involvement in the final season. Harbour expressed his belief that Netflix made the right call in concluding Stranger Things with Season 5, as he believes it is time for the cast to explore new avenues and projects. Beyond Stranger Things, Harbour’s upcoming appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and DC Universe in Thunderbolts and Creature Commandos, respectively, showcase his versatility.
Building upon the record-breaking success of Season 4, which became the most-watched English-language TV show in the streamer’s history until Wednesday claimed the top spot, Season 5 of Stranger Things aims to continue this momentum. While a release window for Season 5 has yet to be announced, all existing episodes of the series are available for streaming on Netflix.
Source: NME
