Actress Jennifer Marshall, known for her role as Max’s mother in the popular Netflix series Stranger Things, expressed that a return for the show’s fifth season could have significantly aided her ongoing battle with cancer. In an Instagram post dated January 6, 2023, Marshall shared her thoughts about the financial security that a role in the series could have provided, particularly in securing union health insurance.
Marshall, who is now 44 years old, revealed her cancer diagnosis in October 2022. She was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer after earlier battling stage 1 cancer in her foot, which had unfortunately spread to her lymph nodes. Despite being in remission during the filming of season five, she emphasized that her participation would have made a substantial difference in her healthcare coverage.
In her Instagram message, Marshall humorously noted her character’s portrayal, stating, “Maybe they had too many characters, idk but obv Susan Hargrove is THE WORST MOTHER EVER LMAO.” She drew attention to the absence of her character, Susan Hargrove, during key moments in the storyline, particularly when her daughter was hospitalized.
Marshall’s Reflections on Her Character’s Absence
Marshall’s character, Susan, has not appeared in season five of the series, prompting fans to question her whereabouts. In a previous Instagram post, she shared a scene featuring Max, portrayed by Sadie Sink, lying in a hospital bed during a critical moment in the show’s narrative. The image included a caption asking, “But where was Max’s mom??” This sparked a wave of comments from fans, many of whom expressed their disappointment over the character’s exclusion from significant family moments.
“Was hoping to see you! Asking the same question,” one fan commented, while another wrote, “I was looking for you at the graduation!!! Everyone’s family was there but Max’s? They did her wrong!” These reactions highlight the emotional connection fans have to the characters and their storylines.
In the series, Susan Hargrove’s character faced personal struggles after her husband, Neil Hargrove, left the family home following the death of Max’s stepbrother, Billy Hargrove. Her last appearance was in season four, where she was impersonated by the antagonist, Vecna. Following the season’s conclusion, theories circulated among fans regarding Susan’s fate, with some speculating that she may have perished when Hawkins was split into four sections.
Insights from Sadie Sink on the Character’s Fate
Sadie Sink also addressed the mystery surrounding her character’s mother in an interview with Vulture, published on December 25, 2025. Sink remarked on the general absence of parents in the series, saying, “It’s kind of common for the parents on the show: You just don’t know where they are except for Karen Wheeler.” She further theorized that Susan may have disappeared or died during the events leading up to the season finale, acknowledging that the show may not have fully explained these developments in the final episodes.
Marshall’s candid reflections on her health and her character’s role in the series have resonated with fans. Her journey through cancer treatment and her desire for representation on screen have highlighted the human impact behind the scenes of Stranger Things. As the series moves toward its conclusion, the absence of characters like Susan continues to spark discussions among its dedicated fanbase.
