The actress who portrayed Max Hargrove’s mother in the popular Netflix series Stranger Things, Jennifer Marshall, has publicly shared that her potential return for the show’s fifth season could have significantly aided her ongoing battle against cancer. In a heartfelt Instagram post on January 6, 2023, Marshall emphasized that reprising her role as Susan Hargrove would have provided her with the necessary union health insurance during a critical period in her life.
Marshall, 44, revealed her health struggles after being diagnosed with stage 3 cancer in 2020, following an earlier diagnosis of stage 1 cancer in her foot. She explained that although she was in remission while filming for season five, the opportunity to work could have had a profound financial impact. “Shooting would have helped me obtain my health insurance through the union,” she wrote, noting the difficulties she faced during her recovery.
In her post, Marshall expressed a mix of humor and frustration at her character’s absence in the show, stating, “Maybe they had too many characters, idk but obv Susan Hargrove is THE WORST MOTHER EVER LMAO,” and included hashtags like “#cancersucks #butwhy.” Her candidness resonated with fans, many of whom have been vocal about their desire to see the character return.
Marshall’s Cancer Journey and ‘Stranger Things’ Absence
Marshall’s cancer diagnosis has been a part of her public narrative since she shared her story on Facebook in October 2022. Fans expressed their concerns and curiosity about her character’s fate, particularly during pivotal moments in the show. In a previous Instagram post, she questioned, “But where was Max’s mom??” alongside a photo depicting Max, played by Sadie Sink, lying in a hospital bed during her coma.
The absence of Susan Hargrove in season five has sparked discussions among fans, with many expressing disappointment over her lack of presence during key emotional scenes. One fan commented, “I was looking for you at the graduation!!! Everyone’s family was there but Max’s? They did her wrong!” These sentiments illustrate the strong connection viewers have with the characters and the narrative arc of the series.
In the series, Susan struggles with personal demons after her husband, Neil Hargrove, leaves the family following the death of Max’s stepbrother, Billy Hargrove. Her final appearance occurred in season 4, where she was briefly impersonated by the antagonist Vecna, leading fans to speculate about her fate. Some theories suggest that her character may have met a tragic end during the climactic events of season 4.
Insights from Sadie Sink and Fan Theories
Sadie Sink, who plays Max, weighed in on Susan’s disappearance during an interview with Vulture on December 25, 2025. She noted the common theme among the show’s parents, stating, “You just don’t know where they are except for Karen Wheeler.” Sink speculated that Susan might have vanished or even died during the rift created at the end of season four, which devastated their trailer park home.
As fans continue to theorize about Susan’s fate and express their hopes for her return, Marshall’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the real-life struggles that can intersect with the fictional worlds of television. Her resilience and candidness have not only shed light on her personal challenges but have also rekindled discussions among viewers about character development and narrative continuity in Stranger Things.
Marshall’s journey and insights resonate beyond the screen, emphasizing the impact of representation and support for those battling similar health issues. Her call for inclusivity and acknowledgment of the characters in the series continues to engage a dedicated fan base, highlighting the deep connections forged between actors and their audience.
