Season 3 of Stranger Things left us with a rollercoaster of emotions. From the explosive battle at Starcourt Mall to the heart-wrenching farewells, fans were left craving answers. As we gear up for the final season, let’s delve into what transpired after Season 3 and what lies ahead for our beloved characters.

Season 5 is the final season of Stranger Things

Despite its massive success, Stranger Things will conclude with Season 5. The Duffer Brothers have always envisioned a five-season arc. In a Collider interview, they explained, “We know what the end is, and we’re working towards it.

This decision ensures a cohesive and satisfying conclusion, avoiding the pitfalls of overstaying its welcome.

The aftermath of Season 4: where did everyone go?

Hawkins in ruins

The Starcourt Mall battle left Hawkins scarred. The town’s residents grappled with the aftermath, mourning the loss of loved ones and the destruction of their community.

The Byers Family’s departure

In the wake of the chaos, Joyce Byers decided to move her family—Jonathan, Will, and Eleven—out of Hawkins. Seeking a fresh start, they left behind the memories and traumas of their hometown.

The fate of Jim Hopper: is he really gone?

Season 3 concluded with the apparent death of Jim Hopper. However, a post-credit scene hinted at his survival, showing a mysterious “American” prisoner in a Russian facility. This revelation sparked theories and hope among fans.

In a Netflix Tudum interview, the Duffer Brothers confirmed Hopper’s return in Season 4, stating, “Hopper is back, and he’s in Russia.

Eleven’s powers: lost and found?

After the intense battle with the Mind Flayer, Eleven lost her telekinetic abilities. This loss left her vulnerable and struggling to adapt to a normal life.

While Season 4 explored her journey to regain her powers, it’s in Season 5 that we anticipate a full resurgence. The Duffer Brothers have teased a climactic showdown, suggesting Eleven’s powers will play a pivotal role.

Max’s coma: Will she wake Up?

Max’s fate was one of the most heart-wrenching cliffhangers of Season 4. After a brutal encounter with Vecna, she was left in a coma.

Actress Sadie Sink addressed Max’s condition in an interview with the New York Post, stating, “They love having me run,” implying that Max could wake up from her coma.

Also read: The fate of max mayfield in stranger things 5

Expanding the universe: Stranger Things spin-offs

As we know Stranger Things is the last season, here are the few things fans can expect to happen after that:

Confirmed Spin-offs

The Stranger Things universe is set to expand with multiple spin-offs. The Duffer Brothers confirmed this in a Screen Rant article, stating, “We have some ideas.

“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” Play

A prequel play titled Stranger Things: The First Shadow premiered in London’s West End and is now on Broadway. Set in 1959, it explores the origins of Henry Creel, who becomes Vecna. This production offers deeper insights into the show’s mythology.

Graphic Novels and Books

For fans craving more, a series of graphic novels and books delve into untold stories. Titles like Stranger Things: The Other Side and Stranger Things: SIX explore characters’ backstories and expand the narrative universe.

Life after Stranger Things: What’s next for the cast?

As the series concludes, the cast members are venturing into new projects.

Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven)

Millie Bobby Brown, who captivated audiences as Eleven, has starred in the Enola Holmes series, portraying Sherlock Holmes’ younger sister, and took on roles in Godzilla: King of the Monsters, Godzilla vs. Kong, and Netflix’s fantasy film Damsel. Beyond acting, Brown launched her beauty brand, Florence by Mills, and became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. In her personal life, she married Jake Bongiovi in May 2024, celebrating with a ceremony in Italy later that year.

Finn Wolfhard (Mike Wheeler)

Finn Wolfhard, known for his role as Mike Wheeler, has expanded his artistic pursuits. He appeared in Ghostbusters: Afterlife and its sequel, and lent his voice to Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, which won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Wolfhard also directed a short film, Night Shifts, showcasing his behind-the-camera talents. Musically, he continues to perform with his band, The Aubreys.

Sadie Sink (Max Mayfield)

Sadie Sink’s portrayal of Max Mayfield got her critical acclaim, propelling her into prominent roles. She starred in Darren Aronofsky’s The Whale, earning a Critics’ Choice Movie Award nomination. Sink also led the cast in Taylor Swift’s short film All Too Well and appeared in the horror trilogy Fear Street. In 2025, she returned to Broadway in John Proctor Is the Villain, securing a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Play.

Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin Henderson)

Gaten Matarazzo, beloved as Dustin Henderson, has returned to his theatrical roots. He starred in the Broadway revival of Dear Evan Hansen and took on the role of Toby in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Matarazzo also hosted the Netflix prank show Prank Encounters, showcasing his versatility beyond acting.

🎬 Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas Sinclair)

Caleb McLaughlin, who portrayed Lucas Sinclair, has continued to build his filmography. He starred alongside Idris Elba in Concrete Cowboy and voiced a character in the animated film The Book of Clarence. McLaughlin is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, emphasizing mental health awareness and youth empowerment.

Noah Schnapp (Will Byers)

Noah Schnapp, known for his role as Will Byers, has ventured into entrepreneurship and co-founded TBH (To Be Honest), a sustainability-focused snacking company offering a vegan alternative to Nutella. In 2023, Schnapp launched TenderFix, a delivery-only virtual restaurant brand operated by IHOP, featuring a menu centered around chicken tenders . Additionally, he enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania, balancing academics with his business endeavors.

🎸 Joe Keery (Steve Harrington)

Joe Keery, who evolved from high school heartthrob to fan-favorite Steve Harrington, has pursued both acting and music. He starred in films like Free Guy and Spree, and continues to release music under the moniker Djo. Reflecting on his time with Stranger Things, Keery shared, “I’m already nostalgic for it,” emphasizing the profound impact the series had on his life.

Their journeys reflect the show’s impact, launching them into stardom.

Conclusion: The legacy of Stranger Things

Stranger Things has been more than a show; it’s been a cultural phenomenon. As we approach its final season, the blend of nostalgia, horror, and heartfelt storytelling continues to captivate audiences.

While Season 5 marks the end of this chapter, the universe’s expansion through spin-offs, plays, and books ensures that the spirit of Hawkins lives on.

So, grab your Eggos and prepare for one last journey into the Upside Down.