Which actor plays police chief Jim Hopper in "Stranger Things"?

David Harbour plays police chief Jim Hopper in Stranger Things.

Jim Hopper is the chief of police in Hawkins, Indiana, when the series begins. Initially withdrawn, cynical, and struggling with alcoholism, Hopper becomes deeply involved in the investigation of Will Byers’s disappearance. His work brings him into conflict with Hawkins National Laboratory and eventually reveals the existence of the Upside Down.

Hopper’s difficult personality has a tragic source. He served in the Vietnam War, and his young daughter Sarah later died from cancer associated with his exposure to Agent Orange. The loss damaged his marriage and contributed to his isolation, but his growing concern for the children of Hawkins gradually gives him a renewed sense of purpose.

Across the series, Hopper evolves from a reluctant investigator into a protective father figure. He shelters Eleven, helps rescue Will, and eventually adopts Eleven. David Harbour’s performance earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. A common mix-up is identifying Hopper with Matthew Modine, who plays Dr. Martin Brenner, or Brett Gelman, who plays Murray Bauman.