From high school jock to 'reluctant surrogate babysitter' and internet icon
In short: Steve Harrington was originally designed to be a villain who died in the first season. Instead, he became the emotional anchor of a global phenomenon. His journey from a stereotypical 1980s antagonist to a beloved, protective father figure offers a masterclass in character redemption and the power of evolution.
Originally conceived by the Duffer Brothers as a more antagonistic figure slated for death in Season 1, Steve Harrington's trajectory shifted entirely upon casting Joe Keery. The creators 'fell in love' with Keery's portrayal, opting to keep the character alive and providing him with a redemption arc. This pivot transformed him from a character viewers were meant to despise into one of the series' most beloved figures, praised by critics as a 'masterclass' in character treatment.
Steve's evolution is defined by his transition from a popular, often harassing jock to a courageous protector. After a physical defeat by Jonathan Byers in the first season, Steve abandoned his former ways to help the Byers family. By the second season, his role shifted again; executive producer Shawn Levy noted that his pairing with Dustin Henderson was an unplanned development born from both characters experiencing heartbreak and loneliness. This bond eventually saw Steve take the younger children under his wing, earning him a protective reputation that sparked an internet meme naming him a 'mom' or 'dad.'
The character's growth is further cemented by his nuanced relationships. His friendship with Robin Buckley is highlighted as a significant milestone, particularly his 'sweet and heartfelt' reaction to her coming out as a lesbian. Critics have lauded him as an 'unflappable gay ally' in a 1980s setting. By the series' conclusion, Steve's journey from a self-centered high school popular kid to a baseball little league coach and sex education teacher in 1989 serves as a testament to his enduring appeal as the show's 'heart and soul.'
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Steve Harrington
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