After seven incredible years of supernatural mysteries and nostalgic thrills, ‘Stranger Things’ is preparing to bid farewell. Netflix’s annual ‘Stranger Things Day’ on 6th November is the perfect occasion to commemorate the significance of this iconic series in the world of the Upside Down. It all began on this day in 1983 when young Will Byers went missing in the quaint town of Hawkins, Indiana.
Back in July 2016, when ‘Stranger Things’ first graced our screens, it quickly became an unexpected cultural sensation. The ensemble cast, many of whom were just emerging into the spotlight, captured our hearts. Winona Ryder, in particular, played a prominent role and was a big draw for many viewers.
Since then, ‘Stranger Things’ has broken numerous records on Netflix. Season four set a Nielsen record as the most-watched show at the time, accumulating over 7 billion minutes of viewing time in a single week. It was the streaming platform’s most-watched series of the year.
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As the show’s creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, announced that season five would be the final chapter, fans felt a bittersweet sense of nostalgia and excitement. After all, the young actors who once starred in the series have grown into their late teens and early 20s.
The Duffer brothers revealed in February 2022, “Seven years ago, we planned out the complete story arc for ‘Stranger Things.’ At the time, we predicted the story would last four to five seasons. It proved too large to tell in four but, as you’ll see for yourselves, we are now hurtling toward our finale.”
The final season of ‘Stranger Things’ was originally scheduled to start production in the summer, but a dual strike by writers and actors delayed the process. However, there is optimism that production could resume soon with the strikes nearing resolution.
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The Cast
Most of the main cast members are expected to return for the final installment. This includes Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Priah Ferguson, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Maya Hawke, Joe Keery, David Harbour, Winona Ryder, and Brett Gelman. However, Sadie Sink’s character Max’s fate remains uncertain after her coma in season four.
Joseph Quinn’s beloved character, Eddie Munson met his end in season four, but his death is said to have significant repercussions for the surviving characters. There might be room for otherworldly cameos or flashbacks.
Jamie Campbell Bower, who portrayed the enigmatic Henry Creel (aka 001 and Vecna), is expected to play a pivotal role in the final season. Vecna, despite being briefly overpowered in season four, is poised to return, and his agenda is shrouded in mystery.
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New Additions
Linda Hamilton, an iconic figure from the 1980s, is set to join the cast, although details about her role are tightly guarded. The Duffer brothers have expressed their intention to be cautious about introducing new characters, as they want to ensure that any new additions are integral to the narrative.
The Plot
Little is known about the final season’s plot, as it is still in the early stages of development. However, we do have some intriguing hints. Will’s character is expected to take centre stage as he embarks on a challenging journey of self-discovery. The Duffer brothers also hint at a potential return to the Upside Down and unresolved issues in Steve and Nancy’s relationship.
A time jump is likely, given that the young actors are growing into their 20s while their characters remain in high school. Vecna’s return promises more supernatural challenges for the Hawkins crew, requiring them to be even smarter and resourceful.
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What’s Next
In December, a stage play titled ‘The First Shadow’ will take audiences to 1959 Hawkins, with a focus on Hopper, Bob Newby, and Joyce during their high school years. The play will delve into the past and the shadows that continue to haunt Hawkins.
While many details about the final season remain a secret, the Duffer brothers assure fans that they are balancing character arcs, loose ends, and final revelations. They are determined to provide a satisfying conclusion to this beloved series.
-Britney Jones