American actress Shannon Purser has become the unexpected breakout star of the summer, after making her television debut as Barbara 'Barb' Holland in Netflix series Stranger Things.

Purser, 19, began acting from an early age, starring in local community theatre productions The Seussical and Thoroughly Modern Millie. Cut to several years later, the actress was discovered in a talent showcase and signed with the People Store Agency in Atlanta. The up-and-coming actress has received praise from critics and fans alike for her portrayal of Barb in the eerie science fiction drama, paving the way for potential success in Hollywood.