Stranger Things' Duffer Brothers Respond To Accusation Of Alleged Verbal Abuse On The Set
Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer, collectively dubbed the Duffer Brothers, responds to claims of abuse on the set of the hit Netflix show.
After a crew member took to Instagram and alleged verbal abuse against them, the Duffers apologized for high tempers that may occasionally arise in the production of Stranger Things. However, they also point out that it's "important not to mischaracterize," as they always prioritize treating all the people on set fairly.
Duffers Speak Out
"We are deeply upset to learn that someone felt uncomfortable on our set," the Duffers say in a statement in the Hollywood Reporter, adding that the high-stress nature of the work involved in production occasionally leads to frayed tempers. "And for that, we apologize."
At the same time, the brothers caution against the mischaracterization, saying that equality is something they value in their work.
"However, we think it is important not to mischaracterize our set, where we believe strongly in treating everyone fairly regardless of gender, orientation, race, religion, or anything else," the statement continues. "We remain totally committed to providing a safe and collaborative working environment for everyone on our productions."
Netflix also added their own response, saying that they investigated the allegations and did not find wrongdoings on the set of Stranger Things. According to the statement from the streaming service, a safe and respectful environment on the set is of utmost importance both to the company and the Duffer duo.
Original Post Against Duffers
Peyton Brown, who is reportedly a part of the camera department of the show, shared her grievances against the Stranger Things creator in a lengthy post on Instagram. In the post, she revealed that she will no longer be working in the show's next season, and the International Women's Day is the perfect time to announce why.
A post shared by P (@peytonnbrown) on Mar 8, 2018 at 10:18am PST
"I personally witnessed two men in high positions of power on that set seek out and verbally abuse multiple women," Brown wrote. "I promised myself that if I were ever in a situation to say something that I would."
The former crew member goes on to stress the Time's Up movement message, saying, "This industry is no longer led by a 'few good men,' but instead by an ocean of astounding women."
Brown confirmed in a comment that she is referring to the Duffer brothers in her caption.
Stranger Things Controversies
It's not the first time the Duffer Brothers have come under fire. When cast member Sadie Sink revealed her discomfort at the unscripted kiss between her and Caleb McLaughlin, the Stranger Things creators received backlash from protective fans.
However, Sink later clarified her statement in an interview with The Wrap, saying she didn't feel forced into the kiss, but simply nervous because it was her first kiss.
"But I never objected to [it] or felt pushed into anything. I always felt comfortable and the Duffer Brothers, they do the best job. And always create a comfortable space."
Stranger Things is in hiatus with the third season set to air in 2019.
