Teacher’s Positive Impact Earns Her Cameo in Popular Netflix Series

In a heartwarming turn of events, a beloved North Carolina teacher’s influence has earned her a cameo in the popular Netflix series “Stranger Things.” Hope Hynes, a theater teacher at East Chapel Hill High, will make an appearance as “Miss Harris” in the show’s final season.

What makes this story even more special is that Hynes actually taught the creators of “Stranger Things,” Matt and Ross Duffer, back in the early 2000s at Jordan High School in Durham. The Duffer brothers credit Hynes with giving them the encouragement and support they needed to pursue their dreams, and their bond with her has lasted a lifetime.

“I think it’s my job as an arts teacher to teach them to see something in themselves and all of my students to see their voice,” Hynes shared about her teaching philosophy. When the Duffer brothers approached her about appearing on the show, Hynes humbly agreed, saying, “Sure, I’m happy to give it a try as long as you don’t fire me if I’m bad, right?”

In a touching nod to their roots, the Duffer brothers included several North Carolina references throughout the new season as a tribute to where their journey began. This heartwarming full-circle moment serves as a reminder of the impact a dedicated teacher can have on their students.

It’s stories like these that remind us of the power of positive mentorship and the lasting impression teachers can make on the lives of their students. Who knows, maybe one day you’ll see your favorite teacher on the small screen too!