Jake Connelly, a rising star in the final season of *Stranger Things*, portrays the character Derek, who notably evolves from a typical bully to a lovable hero. Connelly, at just 13, is garnering significant attention for his performance, which is being received positively by fans since the premiere of the first four episodes. Despite his newfound fame, he remains a normal teenager, eager to enjoy weekends sledding and cheering for his favorite football team.
Character Development of Derek
Derek’s transformation is a central theme in his storyline. Initially presented as “Dipshit Derek,” he displays abrasive traits, including bullying Holly Wheeler and making inappropriate comments. However, after receiving encouragement from Joyce, played by Winona Ryder, Derek embraces his better qualities and becomes an unlikely leader in a child revolution against Vecna, the character portrayed by Jamie Campbell Bower.
Connelly’s Insight on His Character
Connelly believes every character has some inherent goodness. He likens Derek’s journey to that of the Grinch, suggesting that everyone can change with the right support. He explained, “You need someone to bring out the good in you.” This mentorship from Joyce is pivotal for Derek, showcasing growth and resilience.
Behind the Scenes
Connelly’s pathway to acting began in Chicago when a family friend invited him to audition for a commercial. His success led to representation by a talent agency and further auditions, culminating in landing the role on *Stranger Things*. He recalls the moment he was notified of his casting while sheltering in a basement during tornado warnings, creating a memorable backdrop to his exciting news.
First Experiences on Set
Stepping onto the set was a surreal experience for Connelly. He particularly enjoyed filming scenes involving food, which added a fun element to his portrayal. Supporting co-stars welcomed him warmly, alleviating his initial nerves. “I was really nervous. But everyone made me feel like I’d been there from the start,” he remarked.
Valuable Mentorship
Jamie Campbell Bower, who plays Vecna, has emerged as a key mentor for Connelly. Their informal meeting led to Bower sharing practical advice: “Keep your head on straight and never let it touch the clouds.” This guidance underscores the importance of maintaining humility despite rising fame.
Memorable Moments and Catchphrases
- Connelly has developed a unique chemistry with Winona Ryder, emphasizing her kindness and maternal nature.
- The line “Delightful Derek” has become iconic, with creators predicting it would lead to meme-worthy moments.
- His character’s humorous lines, including “suck a fat one,” have gained popularity, much to his parents’ amusement.
Nostalgic Set Design
Derek’s bedroom encapsulates classic ’80s culture, featuring vintage toys and memorabilia. Connelly, familiar with this era through his parents, expressed joy in experiencing the nostalgic set decorations.
The Fun of Filming
In scenes depicting heightened action, Connelly’s football prowess shines. He reflected on the challenges and excitement of being physically engaged in the shooting process, equating the experience to feeling like an action star. Moments of roughhousing on set, especially with co-stars like Noah Schnapp, added a playful dynamic to filming.
Overall, Jake Connelly’s experience in *Stranger Things* reflects both his personal growth and the collaborative spirit of the show’s cast and crew. As the story unfolds, many look forward to seeing how Derek continues to transform under the influences of his friends and mentors, particularly the enigmatic Vecna.
