Meet Jake Connelly: The Breakout Star Behind "Delightful Derek" in Stranger Things

Meet Jake Connelly: The Stranger Things Breakout Star

Meet Jake Connelly: The "Delightful Derek" of Stranger Things

Jake Connelly Stranger Things

If you’ve been binge-watching Stranger Things Season 5, you’ve likely noticed a fresh face stealing scenes amidst the chaos of Hawkins. That face belongs to Jake Connelly, the young actor playing Derek Turnbow.

Whether you know him as the schoolyard menace "Dipshit Derek" or have grown to love his redemption arc as "Delightful Derek," Jake Connelly has quickly become the season's unexpected fan favorite. But who is the 13-year-old talent holding his own against Vecna?

📺 Watch Jake's Best Scenes

Who is Jake Connelly in Stranger Things?

In Stranger Things Season 5, Jake Connelly plays Derek Turnbow. When we first meet Derek, he fits the classic bully trope—brash, rude, and tormenting Holly Wheeler. Fans initially labeled him "Dipshit Derek" for his antagonistic behavior.

However, the Duffer Brothers saw something special in Jake. During the table read, Jake's natural charm was so infectious that the creators rewrote the character’s trajectory. Instead of remaining a one-dimensional bully, Derek evolves into a courageous ally, eventually helping the core group in their fight against Vecna.

Jake Connelly as Derek Turnbow

The "Tornado" Audition & The Mayonnaise Lie

Jake’s journey to Netflix stardom sounds like a movie script itself. He didn't come from a long list of Jake Connelly movies and TV shows; he was virtually unknown before this role.

  • The Call: Jake found out he landed the role while sheltering in his basement during a tornado warning in Chicago.
  • The Secret: To keep his casting under tight wraps, he told his schoolmates he was filming a "documentary about mayonnaise."

Personal Life: Age, Parents & School

Fans are clamoring for details about the young star. Here are the quick facts:

  • Jake Connelly How Old: Jake is 13 years old (Born in 2012).
  • Where is He From: He hails from the Chicago suburbs, Illinois.
  • School Life: Despite his fame, he plays football (right tackle) for his school team.
  • Parents: His parents are supportive but not famous. He is not related to Jennifer Connelly.
📸 See Exclusive Photos

Photo Gallery: Jake on Set

Jake Connelly Interview Stranger Things Cast Stranger Things Trailer Jake Connelly Headshot

Addressing the "Hate"

If you see the search term "Jake Connelly hate", don't worry—the actor is beloved. The hate is directed at his character's initial bullying of Holly Wheeler. Jake describes Derek as a "Grinch-like" character who just needed the right push to become a hero.


© 2025 Fan News. Not affiliated with Netflix.

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