Let G be a finite simple graph with λ as an eigenvalue (i.e. an eigenvalue of the adjacency matrix of G), and let H be a star complement for λ in G. Motivated by a controllability condition, we say that H is a strong star complement for λ if G and H have no eigenvalue in common. We explore this concept in the context of line graphs, exceptional graphs, strongly regular graphs and graphs with a prescribed star complement.