Jamie Campbell Bower Says Goodbye to Henry Creel as Stranger Things Era Nears Its End

Jamie Campbell Bower is ready to move on from Henry Creel, the dark and complex character he brought to life in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things. After portraying the role for the past two seasons, the actor says he feels it is time to pass the torch and let others take the character forward.

Bower was first introduced as Henry Creel in season four, where the character was revealed as the origin of Vecna, the show’s main villain. He continues the role through the fifth and final season, marking the end of his journey in the Stranger Things universe. Recently, he also made a surprise appearance at Broadway’s Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a stage prequel that explores Henry’s troubled teenage years.

Speaking about seeing the character live on stage, Bower described it as surreal and deeply rewarding. He shared that watching different actors interpret Henry feels like a gift, as each performer brings something new to the role. However, when asked if he would ever return to the play in a larger capacity, Bower was clear that his time with the character is done. He believes the role now belongs to someone else.

The stage production features a book by executive producer Kate Trefry, with a story by series creators Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer, alongside playwright Jack Thorne. Direction is handled by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin. After premiering in London’s West End in 2023, the show made its Broadway debut in 2025. Bower attended both openings, with his brief appearance on Broadway marking his first time on the famous New York stage.

Although he is stepping away from Henry Creel, Bower is not turning his back on theater. He says Broadway holds a special place in his heart and that he would gladly return if the right project came along. Whether Shakespeare or a modern play, he admits the stage is something he deeply loves. He also reflected fondly on seeing Wicked for the first time, calling it an unforgettable experience.

Currently, the role of Henry on Broadway is played by Louis McCartney, who originated the character in London and New York. McCartney earned one of the show’s six Tony nominations for his performance. Bower praised him highly, noting how closely his stage portrayal mirrors the physicality and presence he himself used on screen, especially in the final scene that leads into season four of the television series.

As Stranger Things prepares to close its final chapter, Bower seems at peace with leaving Henry Creel behind, while remaining open to new creative paths on stage and screen.