Caleb McLaughlin opens up about dealing with racism from Stranger Things fanbase: ‘It definitely took a toll on me’

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. While speaking at the Heroes Comic Con Belgium convention, the 20-year-old actor who plays the role of Lucas Sinclair on the hit Netflix series, talked about the racism he’s faced in the past. Some people told me, ‘Oh I didn’t want to be in your line because you were mean to Eleven.’” “Even now, some people don’t follow me or don’t support me because I’m Black,” McLaughlin added. “But that’s why with my platform, I want to spread positivity and love because I do not give hate back to people who give hate to me.” Earlier this year, McLaughlin paid tribute to his real-life hero, Kobe Bryant, in the newest season of Stranger Things. Caleb McLaughlin is a huge fan and had the idea to pay tribute to Kobe through his character’s jersey,” the streamer tweeted.