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As we prepare to return to Hawkins one last time, fans of Netflix’s hit series “Stranger Things” are bracing themselves for what promises to be a mind-flaying conclusion. Like Eleven facing the Demogorgon, we’re both excited and terrified to see how this beloved story will end. So, let’s dive into the Upside Down of information and uncover everything we know about Stranger Things 5.
The Beginning of the End: “Friends Don’t Lie”
Back in February 2022, the creators – the Duffer Brothers dropped a truth bomb that would make even Eleven pause. They announced that Season 5 would be the show’s last, proving that friends don’t lie, even when the truth hurts. In their open letter to fans, they wrote:
“Seven years ago, we planned out the complete story arc for Stranger Things. At the time, we predicted the story would last four or five seasons. It proved too large to tell in four, but — as you’ll soon see for yourselves — we are now hurtling toward our finale. Season 4 will be the penultimate season; season 5 will be the last.”
uoos noʎ ǝǝs pic.twitter.com/pJ71dRgmo1
— Stranger Things (@Stranger_Things) February 17, 2022
Production and Release Date
After delays production for Stranger Things 5 officially began on January 8, 2024. However, fans might need to stock up on Eggos and prepare for a longer wait than initially expected.
Millie Bobby Brown, who plays the role of Eleven, revealed in March 2024 that filming would continue for another nine months, likely wrapping up in December 2024 or January 2025. Given the show’s extensive post-production needs (those Demogorgons don’t animate themselves, you know), we might not see the final season until late 2025 or early 2026. It’s not ideal, but hey, at least it’s not The Upside Down.
Returning Cast and New Faces
Most of the main cast is expected to return, ready to face whatever interdimensional horrors await. This includes Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), Finn Wolfhard (Mike), Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas), Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin), and Noah Schnapp (Will). Joe Keery, who plays everyone’s favourite babysitter Steve Harrington, teased “good things” for his character in the final season.
The fate of some characters remains as uncertain as the contents of a Hawkins Lab experiment. Sadie Sink’s Max ended Season 4 in a coma, while Joseph Quinn’s Eddie Munson seemed to meet a heroic end. However, Quinn has been dropping hints about a potential return, stating cryptically, “I might have that feeling too. Or maybe I don’t. I don’t know! Who knows?” It’s enough to make us wonder if he’s been spending time with Erica and her D&D campaigns.
Four new cast members have been confirmed, including child actors Jake Connelly and Nell Fisher, Alex Breaux, and, in a move that would impress even Murray Bauman, none other than “The Terminator” star Linda Hamilton.
Plot Details and Character Arcs
While specific plot details are locked up, the Duffer Brothers have promised that Season 5 will focus on breaking down the mythology of the Upside Down and answering long-standing questions from Season 1. Matt Duffer described it as “season 1 on steroids,” adding, “It’s the biggest it’s ever been in terms of scale.” We can almost hear Dustin exclaiming, “Now this is music!”
Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers (the boy who started it all), hinted at his character’s significance in the final season: “The way they closed the show is just perfect — the story started with Will, and it’ll end with Will.” It seems Will’s journey is far from over, reminding us that in Hawkins, history has a way of repeating itself.
Ross Duffer elaborated on Will’s arc, saying, “Will really takes centre stage again in 5. This emotional arc for him is what we feel is going to hopefully tie the whole series together.” Could this mean Will’s connection to the Upside Down will be the key to finally closing the gate?
Finn Wolfhard, addressing the unresolved tension between Mike and Will, said, “I would imagine Mike is going to be totally accepting of Will, and I really want Will to have a really happy ending. And I think he will.” Let’s hope their friendship proves once again that “friends don’t lie” and “crazy together” is the best way to be.
Episode Count and Runtime
Stranger Things 5 will consist of eight episodes, each promising to be as packed with action and emotion as a Scoops Ahoy ice cream sundae. Maya Hawke, who plays Robin, described them as “basically, eight movies,” emphasizing their length and quality.
While the season overall may not be as long as Season 4 (which had a total runtime that could rival a road trip to Utah), the Duffer Brothers have hinted at a film-length finale, potentially running around 2.5 hours. As Dustin would say, “Why are you keeping this curiosity door locked?” We can’t wait to see what’s behind it.
The Future of the Stranger Things Universe
While this may be the end for our core group of characters, it’s not the last we’ll see of the Stranger Things universe. Like the Upside Down itself, the franchise is spreading. The Duffer Brothers have confirmed that spin-offs are in development, including a mysterious live-action series correctly guessed by Finn Wolfhard.
What could it be? A Steve and Robin buddy cop show? Erica’s adventures in D&D? The possibilities are as endless as a trip through the Void.
Additionally, a prequel stage play, “Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” debuted on London’s West End in November 2023 and is set to transfer to Broadway in 2025. It seems the curiosity door will remain open for fans even after the main series concludes.
As we approach the final chapter of this cultural phenomenon, one thing is certain: Stranger Things 5 promises to be an emotional, action-packed finale that will keep fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
As we prepare to face this last adventure with our favourite party of misfits, remember: “Mornings are for coffee and contemplation,” but the next year or so will be for theories, rewatches, and eager anticipation. Whether you’re Team Steve or Team Jonathan, whether you prefer Eggos or maple syrup on your waffles, we’re all in this together.
As Eleven would say, “Friends don’t lie,” and here’s the truth: Stranger Things 5 is coming, and it’s going to turn our world Upside Down one last time. So grab your Farrah Fawcett hairspray, dust off your Ghostbusters proton packs, and get ready.