Levy said the casting for the series was a long process but when the 44-year-old actress was put forward for the role he decided that she was the person best suited the character of Joyce Byers, reported Contactmusic.
"Many of these roles we looked for months and months - the Brothers were insanely stubborn in their search for the right kids. From the day casting director Carmen Cuba suggested Winona, the Duffers and I were like, "Oh yeah, that's got to be it", said the 47-year-old director.
Levy also said that Winona is getting deserved attention and praise for her performance.