Fans of the acclaimed Netflix series Stranger Things were taken aback on November 28, 2023, when co-creator Ross Duffer shared a heartfelt revelation about a new character in the show’s fifth and final season. As the first four episodes premiered this week, anticipation for the series finale, set for December 31, 2023, has left viewers eagerly speculating about the show’s conclusion.
In an Instagram post, Ross Duffer disclosed a personal connection to one of the newcomers, Hope Hynes Love, who plays the character Miss Harris. Duffer revealed that she was not just an actress but their former high school drama teacher in Durham, North Carolina. He expressed gratitude for her role in their lives during a challenging time, stating, “High school was rough for me and my brother. But Hope saw something in us we didn’t see in ourselves.”
The Duffers, who began making films as children, credited Hynes with helping them find the confidence they needed to pursue their dreams in the entertainment industry. “She helped give us the confidence to not only survive those four years, but to move to LA and chase our dreams,” Ross continued.
In his post, he also emphasized the importance of arts education, urging for greater support for creative subjects in schools. “Shoutout to all the teachers out there making a difference. And please… let’s prioritize the arts in schools,” he added.
The response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their emotions in the comments. One fan wrote, “OMG this is awesome,” while another stated, “THIS IS SO SPECIAL.” The connection between the Duffers and Hynes has resonated with viewers, highlighting the significant impact teachers can have on their students’ lives.
The Duffer brothers, born and raised in Durham, began their filmmaking journey in the third grade. They attended the Duke School for Children before completing their education at Charles E. Jordan High School. After graduating from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts in California in 2007, they went on to create several short films before pitching the idea for Stranger Things.
As the series approaches its conclusion, the emotional ties that the Duffers have shared with their past serve as a reminder of the profound influence that educators can have on aspiring artists and creators. With more episodes set to release on Christmas Day, fans are preparing for a bittersweet farewell to a show that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
