Joseph Quinn, the acclaimed star of Netflix’s hit series “Stranger Things,” may have grown up in South London, but his heart has a special place for Liverpool. In an exclusive interview with the Liverpool Echo, the 29-year-old actor opened up about his strong bond with the city and his Merseyside roots.
Quinn’s rise to stardom reached new heights with his portrayal of Eddie Munson in the fourth season of “Stranger Things.” As fans eagerly devoured the final episodes of the season on Netflix, Joseph Quinn’s captivating performance as the leader of Hawkins High’s D&D club once again drew widespread praise.
His connection to Liverpool is deeply rooted in his family, particularly his mum, who hails from the city. Quinn revealed, “I spent my childhood going up to West Derby, and I still see them whenever I can. I’ve got some lovely history up in Liverpool, and it’s an amazing city.”
Interestingly, Joseph left fans in stitches at the “Stranger Things” season four premiere when he disclosed that his mum had not heard of the global phenomenon before he was cast in the show. However, she has since caught up and, according to Quinn, is enjoying the series. He jokingly added, “She hasn’t fallen asleep or anything, so that’s a positive. It’s one of those things that just completely passed her by.”
Joseph’s Liverpool roots run deep, as his mum is one of four sisters who were all overjoyed when he landed the role in “Stranger Things.” He shared a humorous anecdote, saying, “When my mum called them and told them I’ve got this Stranger Things job, my auntie went mental, and my mum went ‘oh, so it’s a big deal then, is it?’ and she was like ‘are you messing?’”
Despite his southern accent, Joseph Quinn has a knack for imitating his Scouse relatives. He explained that while he thinks he does a pretty good job, his family isn’t easily impressed. He chuckled, “I think it’s pretty good, but every time I go up there and do it, my family just pick holes in it. ‘It’s a good job you haven’t played a Scouser there, lad.’ I think I’m nailing this, but they clearly think there’s a lot more work to do.”
Quinn’s charismatic portrayal of Eddie Munson in “Stranger Things” combines heart and humor, and he attributes some of his comedic talents to his Scouse heritage. He noted, “Liverpool is a city full of comedians, and I like to think I’ve inherited a bit of Scouse humor, but that could be scandalous saying that.”
Beyond his acting career, Joseph Quinn is an avid Liverpool FC supporter. He fondly recalls a cherished memory of visiting Anfield with his late grandad, who happened to support Everton. Quinn shared the humorous twist to the story, saying, “Liverpool won, and it was great, but as we left, he took his cap off, and a guy behind him went: ‘Is that Frank? My god. Frank’s a red.’ He was getting ripped in the pub over the next few months.”
Despite his busy schedule, Joseph Quinn continues to make regular visits to Liverpool, and he emphasized that family remains the primary reason he returns to the city. He added, “I’m no stranger to the Sefton Arms when I’m there, but family is the main reason I come home, so that’s the best part about visiting.”
Joseph Quinn’s strong ties to Liverpool and his endearing Scouse connections add another layer of charm to this rising star’s captivating journey in the world of entertainment.