David Harbour has stepped away from the highly anticipated upcoming film Behemoth!, a drama from Tony Gilroy, the creator of Andor and writer-director behind Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Harbour, 50, had already filmed scenes alongside Olivia Wilde in Los Angeles but will no longer appear in the project, according to representatives for Searchlight Pictures.

Details on Harbour’s Exit

Variety first reported Harbour’s departure on January 6, 2026, citing sources familiar with the production. Harbour reportedly decided to step back from the film to rest after promoting the final season of Stranger Things, which concluded on December 31, 2025.

A logline for Behemoth! describes the movie as focusing on “a musician from a family of musicians who returns to Los Angeles,” serving as “a love letter to the music of the movies and the people who make it.”

It remains unclear who will replace Harbour in the cast. Representatives for the actor have not yet commented.

Harbour’s Work on the Film

Harbour and Wilde were photographed filming night scenes in Los Angeles on December 10, 2025. Harbour’s involvement in the film had been confirmed in October 2025, with director Tony Gilroy describing the story as centering on a cellist navigating personal and artistic challenges.

Although Harbour’s specific role is unknown, his collaboration with Wilde was widely reported and captured on set, raising anticipation for the film prior to his exit.

Tony Gilroy and the Creative Team

The film is written and directed by Tony Gilroy, who is well-known for the Disney+ series Andor and the Bourne franchise. Gilroy’s previous works, including Michael Clayton and The Bourne Legacy, highlight his expertise in blending character-driven storytelling with cinematic tension.

Harbour’s Recent Projects

David Harbour recently wrapped his long-running role as Jim Hopper on Stranger Things. Outside of the Netflix series, Harbour continues to maintain a busy schedule in film:

• Thunderbolts – reprising his role as Alexei Shostakovich / Red Guardian
• Avengers: Doomsday – expected to reprise the Red Guardian
• Violent Night 2 – sequel to the Christmas-themed action movie

Harbour has openly discussed his experiences with bipolar disorder and mental health struggles in his 20s, highlighting the pressures of Hollywood and maintaining a high-profile career while prioritizing personal wellness.

What This Means for Behemoth!

While Harbour’s exit is unexpected, production is expected to continue with a new actor stepping into the role. Fans remain curious about the casting changes and how the film will adapt to Harbour’s absence.

Behemoth! is poised to join Disney-adjacent studios’ slate of critically anticipated films, especially given Gilroy’s reputation and the involvement of stars like Olivia Wilde and Pedro Pascal.