Andrey Ivchenko’s “Endearing” Connection With ‘Stranger Things’ Family

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Andrey Ivchenko, who played Grigori in Season 3 of Stranger Things and famously fought Jim Hopper, faced a difficult health challenge after the show. He was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer called grade 2 chondrosarcoma and underwent major surgery. The procedure involved receiving a 3D-printed titanium pelvis and a complete hip replacement.

Even though it’s been a while since filming wrapped, Ivchenko shared with MovieWeb that the connections he made with the cast and crew have been a vital source of support during his challenging recovery.

Joining the Stranger Things set for Season 3 felt amazing. Everyone immediately made me feel like part of the family – I honestly never felt like the new kid. The whole experience was magical, truly. We filmed on location for seven months, which gave us all the chance to really connect and become close, and I’ve stayed in touch with a lot of them since then.

Andrey Ivchenko’s ‘Stranger Things’ Family Supported Him After His Diagnosis


Netflix

Earlier this year, Ivchenko shared with Life & Style that after learning he had cancer, he was deeply touched by supportive notes and videos from Stranger Things executive producer Shawn Levy and cast members like Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour, Gaten Matarazzo, and Brett Gelman. In a recent interview with MovieWeb, he described these messages of love and support as ‘little lifelines’ that helped him through a very difficult period.

I was truly surprised by the incredible support I received from my ‘Stranger Things’ family – my former co-stars and our producer, Shawn Levy. But even more moving was the kindness I experienced from the fans, many of whom I didn’t even know. I’ll always be grateful for their support.

Before his surgery last year, he caught up with some old colleagues and finally got to meet actors from Stranger Things at an event in Georgia.

He shared how much he cherishes staying connected with his former co-stars. He said seeing them is always joyful, filled with smiles and hugs, no matter how long it’s been. He feels incredibly supported by the ‘Stranger Things’ cast, and that bond will last a lifetime. They’ll always be important to him.

Inside Andrey Ivchenko’s Recovery and Receiving the ‘Courage Award’


Sara De Boer/startraksphoto.com/Instar Images

Ivchenko describes his recovery as a process that required a lot of patience, acceptance, and hard work. He’s made significant progress in physical therapy, learning to walk again gradually. He started with a walker, moved to crutches, and is now using a cane, with a hopeful goal of walking independently by the beginning of 2026.

I’m feeling significantly better now and really appreciate the progress I’ve made. It’s changed me both physically and mentally in ways I never expected.

In September, Ivan Ivchenko received the “Courage Award” at the Sarcoma Foundation of America’s yearly gala in New York City. He attended the event with his surgeon, Dr. Michael Duran, and described the experience as a great honor.

Sharing that moment with him was truly meaningful, and I wanted to make sure he received full recognition for saving my life. It’s an amazing starting point for everything now.

Ivchenko expressed his pride in participating in an event that supports those affected by this rare cancer. He invited anyone wanting to help to visit curesarcoma.org for more information.

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2025-12-02 23:09