The Duffer Brothers cast their high school drama teacher in “Stranger Things” season 5: 'Hope saw something in us'

Tribute in season 5

In the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, the Duffer Brothers chose to mirror their own past by inviting their real high school drama teacher to join the cast. They described this decision as a deeply personal gesture that ties their coming-of-age experiences to the show’s conclusion.

Who she plays

Their former teacher, Hope Hynes Love, appears in season 5 as Ms. (or Miss) Harris, an educator in Hawkins. In the story, Ms. Harris is shown as a formative teacher for the kids and is connected to the lives of several of the young characters now facing Vecna.

Why she matters to them

Ross Duffer explained in an Instagram post that high school was a difficult period for him and his brother Matt, but Hope Hynes Love believed in them when they did not believe in themselves. He credited her with giving them the confidence not only to survive those years but also to move to Los Angeles and pursue their creative ambitions.

Direct quote

“High school was rough for me and my brother. But Hope saw something in us we didn't see in ourselves — and she helped give us the confidence to not only survive those four years, but to move to LA and chase our dreams.”

Message to teachers and arts education

Ross also used his post to thank teachers who go above and beyond for their students. He urged people to prioritize arts education in schools, emphasizing how crucial those programs and mentors can be for young creatives.

Direct quote

“Shoutout to all the teachers out there making a difference. And please… let’s prioritize the arts in schools.”

In-universe role of Ms. Harris

Within the plot of season 5, Volume 1, Ms. Harris is portrayed as a caring teacher who now works with younger kids in Hawkins, including Holly. She notices Holly’s strange behavior around her “imaginary friend,” who is eventually linked to Henry/Vecna, and she helps support the children during the escalating crisis.

Author’s summary

By inviting Hope Hynes Love into season 5 as Ms. Harris, the Duffer Brothers turn their farewell to Stranger Things into a thank-you letter to the teacher who believed in them and to the power of arts education.

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Yahoo Yahoo — 2025-11-29

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