‘Stranger Things’ Star Turns Back on USA During Historic Olympic Gold Win
For years, Noah Schnapp has been one of the most recognizable young faces in Hollywood. As Will Byers on Stranger Things, he grew up in front of millions of viewers, becoming closely tied to one of the most successful American streaming franchises of the last decade. That’s why what happened during the 2026 Winter Olympics caught so many fans off guard.
During Sunday’s men’s hockey gold medal showdown between the United States and Canada, cameras panned the crowd and landed on Schnapp wearing a Team Canada jersey. He wasn’t off to the side or dressed neutrally. He was surrounded by Canadian fans, cheering on Canada as the two rivals battled for gold.
The timing couldn’t have been bigger.
The U.S. defeated Canada 2–1 in overtime, clinching its first Olympic men’s hockey gold medal since the legendary 1980 “Miracle on Ice” team. For American fans, the victory felt historic. For some watching at home, seeing a major American TV star visibly rooting for the other side added an unexpected twist to the celebration.
A Historic Win With Extra Emotion
The USA–Canada hockey rivalry runs deep. Every Olympic meeting carries weight, but this one felt especially charged given how long it had been since the United States last stood atop the podium.
When the overtime goal hit the net, American players poured onto the ice. Social media exploded with celebration. But alongside the highlight clips of the winning goal, another clip began circulating — Schnapp in red and white, applauding Canada during the matchup.
Noah Schnapp supporting Canada during the USA-Canada gold medal men’s hockey game at the 2026 Olympics. pic.twitter.com/ziQqesdjcW
— Buzzing Pop (@BuzzingPop) February 22, 2026
Within minutes, the internet reacted.
Some fans accused the actor of “turning his back” on the United States during a moment of national pride.
The Dual-Citizenship Debate
To be clear, Schnapp holds dual citizenship in both the United States and Canada. That fact immediately became central to the conversation.
Supporters argued that someone with legitimate ties to both countries has every right to choose either side during an international sporting event. Critics, however, focused on optics.
Schnapp built his career in America. He became famous playing an American character in a series set in small-town Indiana. To some viewers, that connection made his public support of Canada during such a high-profile moment feel symbolic, even if unintentionally so.
It’s the kind of emotional reaction that only global events seem to spark.
International sports amplify everything. Wins feel larger. Losses sting more. And when a celebrity is visibly involved, the spotlight intensifies. In today’s social media landscape, visuals are powerful. A single camera shot can become a trending topic within minutes. That’s exactly what happened here.
As the United States celebrates its long-awaited gold medal, the focus will ultimately remain on the players who secured it.
