I think most of us can agree Stranger Things was one of the best series of 2016. Now they are reaping the rewards with a big win! While accepting the award for Ensemble in a Drama Series, during The 23rd Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at The Shrine Auditorium, actor David Harbour gave an powerful speech. What he said got the crowd on their feet and cheers filled the auditorium. It felt like Chief Hopper was about to save the day again – and he did not disappoint!
He took the stage front and center to deliver this message;
“This award from you, who take your craft seriously and earnestly believe, like me, that great acting can change the world is a call to arms from our fellow craftsmen and women to go deeper and, through our art, to battle against fear, self-centeredness and exclusivity of our predominantly narcissistic culture,” he said. “And through our craft, cultivate a more empathetic and understanding society by revealing intimate truths that serve as a forceful reminder to folks that when they feel broken, and afraid and tired they are not alone.
We are united in that we are all human beings, and we are all together on this horrible, painful, joyous, exciting and mysterious ride that is being alive.”
Harbour said.
As his politically charged speech continued he weaved in a narrative from the series the cast won a SAG for…
“Now, as we act in the continuing narrative of ‘Stranger Things,’ we 1983 midwesterners will repel bullies, we will shelter freaks and outcasts — those who have no homes — [and] we will get past the lies, we will hunt monsters and when we are lost amidst the hypocrisy and casual violence of certain individuals and institutions, we will as per Chief Jim Hopper, punch some people in the face when they seek to destroy the weak, and the disenfranchised and the marginalized and we will do it all with soul, with heart and joy. We thank you for this responsibility.”
During the speech the camera cut away to other actors in the crowd who cheered and came to their feet to show Mr. Harbour support.
One thing is certain – we must continue to push against the monsters. The monsters cannot win! Watch the entire speech below! #Resist #UpsideDown
