Jennifer Marshall played Susan Hargrove on Stranger Things but did not return for Season 5. The actress commented on Instagram.
Stranger Things star Jennifer Marshall was surprised not to be in the fifth season. The actress played Susan Hargrove, Max Mayfield’s mother, in the second and fourth seasons of the Netflix series. However, her character did not return in the final fifth season, which ended on January 1, 2026.
Statement on Instagram
Marshall recently released a statement on Instagram and commented on her non-participation in the series finale. She was disappointed and described the showrunners’ decision as surprising. She also explained that participating in the conclusion of the series would have helped her with her health insurance.
Cancer diagnosis in 2022
In 2022, the actress was diagnosed with cancer. She wrote on Instagram: “I had cancer, I get that! But I was in remission during the filming of Season 5. Filming would have helped me get my health insurance through the union. Maybe there were too many characters, I don’t know, but Susan Hargrove is clearly the WORST MOTHER EVER haha.”
No resentment towards the series creators
The actress later told Variety that the post was just a joke. “I made the video just for fun and it went totally viral,” she explained. She further added, “I hold no grudge against anyone and simply wish things had been different. I was surprised not to be called back but cannot confirm why that decision was made. However, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the previous seasons.”
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