What is the name of the character played by Paul Reiser in Stranger Things?

The character played by Paul Reiser in Stranger Things is Dr. Sam Owens.

Dr. Owens is a senior United States Department of Energy official who becomes involved with Hawkins National Laboratory after Dr. Martin Brenner's earlier experiments. He first appears in the second season, when he is assigned to investigate Will Byers's disturbing connection to the Upside Down.

Unlike Brenner, Owens is generally portrayed as empathetic and protective, although he still works within a secretive government program. He helps contain the supernatural crisis, supports Will's treatment, and later assists Eleven as the government attempts to restore her abilities.

A common mix-up is confusing Owens with other scientists and officials in the series. Martin Brenner is the original “Papa” figure connected to Eleven, while Alexei is a Russian scientist introduced in season three. Paul Reiser's casting also deliberately evokes his role in Aliens, another science-fiction story involving secretive authorities and dangerous creatures.