Jamie Campbell Bower, known for his chilling turn as Vecna in Netflix’s Stranger Things, recently opened up about the personal cost of playing one of the series’ most notorious villains. Speaking at a MegaCon Orlando event, the actor revealed that the role not only demanded long hours under layers of special effects makeup but also took a significant mental toll on him—so much so that he sought guidance from a therapist.
During the discussion, Bower recalled the advice he received from his therapist during a challenging period on set. “We were going through some stuff, and he was like, ‘You really need to take some time for yourself.’ I told him, ‘Honestly, I don’t think I’m going to play the bad guy for one more minute,’” he shared candidly. He went on to emphasize the emotional impact of the role, remarking, “It f—s me up.”
Despite the hardships, Bower expressed gratitude for being part of a show that has captivated audiences worldwide. “It’s been amazing to join the series from season four and be part of something that so many people love, including myself,” he said.
Yet, the time spent in eight-hour makeup sessions and the constant immersion into his character have left him eager to move on from villain roles and the physical and emotional strain that comes with them. “I’m definitely ready to throw away the latex foam and say goodbye to it forever,” he added.
While Bower reflects on his personal journey with his character, fans of Stranger Things are also anticipating the series’ next chapter. The show’s creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, have hinted that the upcoming fifth season—slated for 2025—will be their most ambitious effort yet.
With over 650 hours of footage captured during a year-long filming period, they promise a finale that will feel as expansive and intense as “eight blockbuster movies.” Although an official trailer or premiere date remains under wraps, the final season is expected to deliver a deeply personal and emotionally charged conclusion to the beloved series.
