Duffer Brothers Say Billy Crudup Was First Pick for Hopper

The creators of the hit Netflix series Stranger Things have revealed that actor Billy Crudup was their first choice to play Chief Jim Hopper, a role that ultimately went to David Harbour. The disclosure came during an interview on the podcast Happy Sad Confused, where series creators Matt and Ross Duffer were asked the question by Harbour himself.

In a prerecorded message played by host Josh Horowitz, Harbour directly asked the Duffer brothers about the casting process, stating he was pretty sure he was not the first choice and wanted to know who passed on the role. Horowitz initially speculated the first choice was Josh Brolin, but Matt Duffer clarified it was Billy Crudup. He explained that Crudup passed on the opportunity, noting that at the time, Crudup was not doing much television work. Crudup has since taken on prominent TV roles, including a starring part in Apple TV's The Morning Show.

Following Crudup's decision, Harbour auditioned for the part. Ross Duffer recounted that after a casting director suggested Harbour, the actor came in to read. The creators were not present but viewed a tape of his audition. They said Harbour performed only one take, and it was instantly...