"Stranger Things: Tales From '85" Animated Spinoff Reveals Cast and Setting

Netflix is taking fans back to Hawkins, Indiana—but this time, in animated form.

The streamer has released the first look at "Stranger Things: Tales From '85," an all-new animated spinoff that revisits the eerie town during the winter of 1985, set between the events of 'Stranger Things' Seasons 2 and 3.

What is "Stranger Things: Tales From '85" About?

The series follows the original Hawkins crew as they face a brand-new paranormal mystery and a wave of monstrous threats that once again turn their quiet town upside down. A behind-the-scenes featurette released alongside the first teaser showcases creators Matt and Ross Duffer, as well as 'Stranger Things: Tales From 85' showrunner Eric Robles, discussing how the project captures the nostalgic magic of the original show while reimagining it through the lens of a retro cartoon adventure. 

Robles noted that the creative team's goal was to recapture the wonder of Hawkins in a fresh, animated way that still feels true to the world fans love.

"Stranger Things: Tales From '85" Voice Cast

The voice cast for the animated spinoff introduces new actors taking over iconic roles. Brooklyn Davey Norstedt voices Eleven, Luca Diaz plays Mike, Braxton Quinney takes on Dustin, Elisha Williams voices Lucas, Jolie Hoang-Rappaport plays Max, Ben Plessala voices Will, and Brett Gipson steps in as Chief Hopper. Additional voice roles include Odessa A'zion, Janeane Garofalo, and Lou Diamond Phillips, whose characters remain under wraps.

The first look was revealed as part of Netflix's annual Stranger Things Day celebration, which marks the in-universe date that Will Byers first vanished into the Upside Down. Fans were treated to concept art, monster designs, and a nostalgic teaser that pays homage to the 1980s animation style that inspired the project.

Image Courtesy: Netflix

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Duffer Brothers in "Stranger Things: Tales From '85"

According to the Duffer Brothers, "Stranger Things: Tales From '85" was one of the earliest spinoff ideas they considered when exploring ways to expand the 'Stranger Things' universe. Their vision for the animated series was to evoke the feel of Saturday morning cartoons from the 1980s, complete with bold visuals and a sense of adventure.

Produced by Flying Bark Productions—the animation studio behind Marvel's 'What If...?' and ‘Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur'— the series promises a mix of supernatural action, heart, and humour. The Duffers are on board as executive producers, ensuring the project stays true to the spirit of the original show while introducing a new creative energy.

Image Courtesy: Netflix

"Stranger Things: Tales From '85" Premiere

A premiere date for "Stranger Things: Tales From '85" has not yet been announced, but Netflix has confirmed the animated spinoff will debut in 2026.

Meanwhile, fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of 'Stranger Things' Season 5—the final chapter of the blockbuster series. The first part of the season drops on 26th November, followed by additional episodes in December and a theatrical-streaming finale on New Year's Eve.

Image Courtesy: Netflix

As the Duffer Brothers look ahead to expanding the 'Stranger Things' universe, "Stranger Things: Tales From '85" marks an exciting new era—one that honours the show's legacy while venturing into bold, animated territory.

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