The Duffer Brothers cast their own childhood teacher for a new role in Stranger Things

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Since its debut, Stranger Things has featured many memorable supporting characters, including Derek Turnbow, played this season by Jake Conelly, who has quickly become a fan favorite. Another standout this year is the bespectacled and slightly bewildered teacher Miss Harris, who looks after the kids on the military base and keeps an eye on Holly, portrayed by Nell Fisher, during her chats with Mr. Whatsit.

Hope Hynes Love as Miss Harris

It was recently revealed that Miss Harris is played by Hope Hynes Love, who in real life was the Duffer Brothers’ high school drama teacher. Casting their former instructor in Stranger Things is a personal tribute to someone who shaped their creative path during a difficult period in their lives.

Ross Duffer’s Instagram tribute

Ross Duffer, co-creator of the series, shared the story on Instagram, explaining that Hope Hynes Love once taught drama to both him and his brother Matt. He described how high school was a tough time for them, but their teacher saw potential they did not see in themselves and helped them build the confidence to not only get through those years but also move to Los Angeles and pursue careers in film.

“She was our high school drama teacher,” Ross wrote, emphasizing how important her support was in helping them chase their dreams.

A thank‑you to teachers and the arts

Today, the Duffer Brothers are behind one of the most successful series in Netflix history, and this casting choice reflects how they still honor the people who helped them succeed. Ross also used the moment to thank teachers in general and called for arts education to remain a priority in schools, highlighting how crucial those programs can be for young people.

Ross Duffer added a message of gratitude “to all the teachers out there making a difference” and urged people to keep arts programs strong in education.

Miss Harris in the final season

Miss Harris is one of several new and returning characters appearing amid the escalating chaos of the final season’s storylines. After the dramatic cliffhanger that ends volume 1, it is not yet clear what has happened to her character or where she is when the action resumes.

Fans are hoping Miss Harris will return on screen before Stranger Things wraps up on December 31, ideally avoiding any deadly encounter with a demogorgon. Viewers can follow the full release schedule for the last season to be sure they catch every remaining episode and see whether Hope Hynes Love’s character appears again.

Author’s summary: The Duffers turned their former drama teacher into a heartfelt Stranger Things cameo, honoring her support during their tough high school years and spotlighting the value of arts education.

Yahoo — 2025-11-29