As "Stranger Things" Season 2 is fast approaching, fans and viewers of the 2016 hit Netflix series are already anticipating what's to come in the sophomore season. It's undeniable that the existence of Shannon Purser's character, Barb, has resonated well with fans, especially with her unjustified and violent death. While some fans were hopeful that she would somehow make a comeback in the show's sophomore season, the Duffer Brothers were quick to debunk any rumors about her resurrection. Nonetheless, the actors and actresses behind the hit series are also aware of the cultural impact Barb had among viewers.
David Harbour, who plays Chief Hopper, admitted that while they did not anticipate her impact, they do recognize how important she is in the "Stranger Things" narrative.
David Harbour says Barb is 'important'
David Harbour, whose Chief Hopper went through some character development during the show's debut season, is set to experience his own challenges following his heroic acts in season 1. While he wasn't able to save Barb, the actor said that justice will be served for the Demogorgon's victim, as he hinted at a memorial for Barb in "Stranger Things" season 2. He told TV Guide that because Chief Hopper and the entire town was focused on finding Will Byers, "Barb was not given the justice she deserved." He explained, "So we've realized from the fans that Barb is important, and so we are going to treat her with the respect that she deserves."
Barb will finally find justice in season 2
David Harbour echoes the same sentiments of show creator Matt Duffer, who told Digital Spy last week that "Barb will not be forgotten.
We'll make sure there's some justice for Barb." These statements may imply that "Stranger Things" season 2 may honor the memory of Barb when it returns this October.
Shannon Purser thinks Barb is a 'phenomenon'
Barb's fleeting presence in "Stranger Things" was so well received among viewers that "#JusticeForBarb" trended on social media.
Actress Shannon Purser, who played the iconic character, told News AU, "I don't think any of us could have anticipated the kind of phenomenon it has become," echoing the same sentiments of David Harbour. The "Hellboy" reboot actor admitted that they also didn't know that Barb would be so warmly received by fans. He also had nothing but praises for the way the Duffer Brothers created the character.
He said to TV Guide, "The hair, the glasses, the blouse, the 'is that a new bra,' the judgement—all that, it is so wonderful when it was put together."
"Stranger Things" season 2 returns to Netflix on October 31.
