For nearly a decade, Joe Keery has portrayed the fan-favorite character Steve Harrington in Stranger Things, a role that transformed his career. As the beloved series approaches its end, the actor shared how it feels to part ways with the Hawkins, Indiana world that made him a household name.
Keery expressed bittersweet emotions about the conclusion of Stranger Things. While grateful for the friendships and experiences gained through the show, he admitted it would be difficult to leave behind a character who has evolved so much since the first season. Steve Harrington became a surprising hero and emotional anchor in the ensemble, loved for his humor and loyalty.
"It's been such an important part of my life for so long, and saying goodbye is strange," Keery reflected. "But I’m excited to see what comes next."
Despite his affection for the role, Keery revealed there is one aspect of playing Steve that he is ready to leave behind—the intense hairstyling routine required for the character’s signature 1980s look. He joked that maintaining Steve’s perfectly coiffed hair took more effort than fans might imagine.
"The hair routine was insane. So much product, so much time. I won’t be missing that part," he joked.
Keery has used his momentum from Stranger Things to explore new creative directions, including music and film projects. He continues to expand his artistic expression beyond the supernatural setting of Hawkins while staying appreciative of the series that gave him his start.
"I owe a lot to this show," he said. "But it feels like the right time to move on."
Author’s summary: Joe Keery feels grateful yet ready to move forward from Stranger Things, admitting he won’t miss the demanding hair routine of his character Steve Harrington.