David Harbour has withdrawn from the film project Behemoth!, citing the stress of the final season of Stranger Things as the primary reason for his departure. The announcement came shortly after reports indicated that Harbour felt overwhelmed by the intense promotional activities surrounding the Netflix series, which concluded its final season rollout last year.
The actor was slated to star in Behemoth!, directed by Tony Gilroy, known for his work on Andor. The film, which also features Pedro Pascal and Olivia Wilde, has been described as “a love letter to the music of the movies and the people who make it.” According to unnamed sources who spoke with Variety, Harbour’s decision to step away was motivated by the extensive media scrutiny and the rigorous promotion associated with Stranger Things.
A representative from Searchlight Pictures, the film’s distributor, confirmed Harbour’s exit, but the actor has not publicly commented on the situation. The departure follows a tumultuous period in Harbour’s personal life, including public attention on his relationship with singer Lily Allen.
In October 2025, Allen released her album West End Girl, which drew inspiration from their relationship and its challenges. One track, titled Madeline, features lyrics that suggest personal conflicts, including implications of infidelity. Following the album’s release, a woman named Natalie Tippett claimed to be the individual referenced in the song.
Additionally, Harbour faced scrutiny related to a complaint filed by his Stranger Things co-star Millie Bobby Brown. Reports surfaced in November that an internal inquiry was initiated following this complaint. However, Brown later downplayed any rumors of discord, emphasizing her enthusiasm for working with Harbour on the show.
With these developments, Harbour’s decision to prioritize his well-being and take a break from filming appears to be a necessary step amid the pressures of fame and personal challenges. As fans await further updates from the actor, his involvement in future projects remains uncertain.
