David Harbour has expressed his admiration for Winona Ryder after working together for nearly a decade.
In Stranger Things, Harbour plays Jim Hopper, while Ryder portrays Joyce Byers. Their characters develop a romantic relationship, culminating in an emotional kiss at the end of season four.
Harbour recently discussed his experience working with Ryder, whom he regards as an icon, over the years on the show.
In an interview with Esquire Spain, Harbour said, “I just feel so lucky to work with her. I have such a deep, deep love and respect for actors and what we do.”
“I think that we’re so vulnerable putting our faces in these things that we have no control over, trying to show up and invest and create these imaginary worlds. And I think that people who have done that at a level where I believe them and fall in love with them in a fake reality, I just have such awe of it.”
Harbour continued, “I think it’s the same thing people have when they get excited to see me. I’m the same way – whatever your fandom thing is, I have the same thing for her.”
“I certainly have enough respect to not fan out on her, as I know how annoying that is as well.”
He described Ryder as “a deeply emotional human being that I could never be” and an “extraordinary creature.”
Harbour added, “I’ve been so lucky to work with her and be close to her.”
His comments follow reports of his separation from wife Lily Allen.
Harbour and Allen married in 2020, but it was reported earlier this year that they have parted ways.
Their breakup has garnered additional attention with the release of Allen’s new album, West End Girl, which includes references to Harbour’s alleged infidelities.
For example, lyrics from her song “Tennis” include: “So I read your text, and now I regret it. I can’t get my head around how you’ve been playing tennis. If it was just sex, I wouldn’t be jealous. You won’t play with me. And who’s Madeline?”