{"id":596006,"date":"2025-11-26T23:39:53","date_gmt":"2025-11-26T23:39:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/596006\/"},"modified":"2025-11-26T23:39:53","modified_gmt":"2025-11-26T23:39:53","slug":"stranger-things-season-5-premiere-live-countdown-start-time-episode-schedule-and-everything-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/596006\/","title":{"rendered":"&#8216;Stranger Things&#8217; season 5 premiere live countdown \u2014 start time, episode schedule and everything you need to know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Refresh <\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T23:30:19.193Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-e351907e-6e27-43cd-98c6-8663d9c60fe1\"\/>&#8220;Nothing else is like this&#8221;: Sadie Sink on the bond between the &#8220;Stranger Things&#8221; cast<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.27%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/GsbLyBf9gRh464EhdLCFXM.jpg\" alt=\"Stranger Things 3\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/GsbLyBf9gRh464EhdLCFXM.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/GsbLyBf9gRh464EhdLCFXM.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"8d52e04c-fc1a-48a2-a3fe-58727885a489\">Sadie Sink, who plays Max Mayfield in the Netflix series, was only 14 years old when she joined the &#8220;Stranger Things&#8221; cast back in 2017. In the near-decade since, the now-23-year old has not only become a vital part of the show but also the cast, whose unique bond she recently discussed in <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.glamour.com\/story\/sadie-sink-2025-cover\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Glamour magazine<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It\u2019s bigger than even high school or college, or the friends that you make there. It\u2019s bigger than that because nothing else is like this,&#8221; Sink told the outlet about her deep connection with her co-stars. &#8220;We\u2019re so connected on so many levels, and then also have this really singular experience. I still have these people and everything, but we have to say goodbye to what brought us together. It was like saying goodbye to your childhood.&#8221; \u2014 CI<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T23:11:57.765Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-55b86db0-b97b-4f52-a993-8f76021dc760\"\/>Why you should see the season 5 finale in theaters<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ZnfgwCqSnzE6g4EFNg6XVM.jpg\" alt=\"Joe Keery as Steve Harrington and Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ZnfgwCqSnzE6g4EFNg6XVM.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ZnfgwCqSnzE6g4EFNg6XVM.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"786e76dd-954d-4012-b033-c464e5f19dd6\">If you\u2019re planning to watch the \u201cStranger Things\u201d finale when it drops, I\u2019d highly recommend seeing it in theaters. The creators have promised an epic, cinematic conclusion, and experiencing it on the big screen will make the Upside Down visuals, tense moments, and emotional scenes feel even more intense. Plus, sharing the reactions with fellow fans will turn it into a real event and a communal way to celebrate the end of a decade-long journey. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T22:50:51.990Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-f73bc314-ae26-4e4c-a0ba-23cb841f8d04\"\/>The cast take a trip down memory lane<\/p>\n<p>The &#8220;Stranger Things&#8221; Cast Look Back on Five Seasons of the Netflix Hit &#8211; YouTube<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764200358_661_maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"The \" stranger=\"\" things=\"\" cast=\"\" look=\"\" back=\"\" on=\"\" five=\"\" seasons=\"\" of=\"\" the=\"\" netflix=\"\" hit=\"\" youtube=\"\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"watch-on-youtube-a0yYmiXqfJg\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/a0yYmiXqfJg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch On <\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"c6ba9a4d-2f94-4355-b6e3-716306f2e62b\">In a recent cast interview, the \u201cStranger Things\u201d cast looked back on previous seasons, sharing stories about their favorite moments and behind-the-scenes memories. They reflected on how much they\u2019ve grown alongside their characters over the years, the challenges of filming intense scenes, and the friendships they\u2019ve built on set. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T22:29:37.082Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-6f271e3a-76b0-4f5c-9c9f-e58f99a629cb\"\/>Will Byers takes center stage in season 5<\/p>\n<p id=\"d09043c3-c862-4899-bcf8-3d00b55d7b96\">One of the <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/stranger-things-creators-say-this-characters-storyline-will-tie-the-whole-series-together-in-season-5%20\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/stranger-things-creators-say-this-characters-storyline-will-tie-the-whole-series-together-in-season-5%20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">biggest storylines in season\u202f5 will center on Will Byers<\/a>. According to Ross Duffer, his arc is designed to \u201ctie the whole series together,\u201d giving fans long-awaited answers about his unique connection to the Upside Down (h\/t <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/variety.com\/2023\/tv\/features\/noah-schnapp-coming-out-will-byers-gay-stranger-things-5-1235687739\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Variety<\/a>). After years of being the quiet, sensitive member of the group, Will\u2019s experiences are finally coming to the forefront, and his journey could hold the key to understanding the bigger mysteries of Hawkins. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T22:00:41.410Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-325532bd-13e6-4f5e-8a28-8f80eb2fd30c\"\/>Character recap \u2014 Vecna<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/bPEVHogB27enQJsqrZb6kJ.jpg\" alt=\"Jamie Campbell Bower as Vecna in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season4 on Netflix\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/bPEVHogB27enQJsqrZb6kJ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/bPEVHogB27enQJsqrZb6kJ.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"daf830a7-d13a-4807-9dcd-ad9560b992d8\">Born as Henry Creel (also known as Subject 001, \u201cOne\u201d), Vecna is revealed to be the mastermind behind every major supernatural threat in \u201cStranger Things\u201d \u2014 from the Upside Down monsters to the Mind Flayer itself. After a brutal showdown in season 4, he was seriously wounded but not destroyed: his plans partially succeeded, cracks between the real world and the Upside Down opened, and the danger is far from over.<\/p>\n<p>The show\u2019s <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.superherohype.com\/news\/636706-stranger-things-season-5-trailer-vecna-new-different-look\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">creators describe him as \u201cVecna 2.0,\u201d <\/a>stronger and scarier in season 5, with new abilities that allow him to attack in the real world (not just psychically). \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T21:30:04.244Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-63e2076b-2c91-4dbd-b82c-a29d59906aef\"\/>\u2018Intense but special\u2019: Gaten Matarazzo on season 5<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/YjWyDUoLt8rdYDUNuHDSvF.jpg\" alt=\"Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler and Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson in STRANGER THINGS 4\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/YjWyDUoLt8rdYDUNuHDSvF.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/YjWyDUoLt8rdYDUNuHDSvF.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"9e10043a-2d07-4d4f-ae34-5733f59fd17c\">Gaten Matarazzo, who plays Dustin, talked to <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/jeffconway\/2025\/11\/25\/gaten-matarazzo-talks-stranger-things-final-season-and-his-next-move\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\">Forbes<\/a> about what it was like filming the final season, describing the experience as \u201cintense but special.\u201d After being part of \u201cStranger Things\u201d for over a decade, saying goodbye to the cast and crew was emotional \u2014 he called it \u201cvery, very sad.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>At the same time, he emphasized that the finale is worth it, with a storyline that feels powerful, meaningful, and a fitting conclusion to the journey. For fans, it\u2019s a reminder of just how much heart the cast has poured into the show over the years. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T21:01:14.603Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-00441929-b8c7-480f-8af4-cf1b5a0721df\"\/>Millie Bobby Brown reveals her favorite and least favorite &#8220;Stranger Things&#8221; season<\/p>\n<p>Stranger Things Cast Reveal Uncomfortable Truths in the Hot Seat | Vanity Fair &#8211; YouTube<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764200362_203_maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"Stranger Things Cast Reveal Uncomfortable Truths in the Hot Seat | Vanity Fair - YouTube\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"watch-on-youtube-wlBKZMw88sQ\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/wlBKZMw88sQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch On <\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"aef6981f-ded4-4d90-ac11-425f84274f1c\">With &#8220;Stranger Things&#8221; ending after nearly a decade, the cast has understandably been reflective about the series as a whole during their victory-lap promo tour. And during a lively interview on <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=wlBKZMw88sQ\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Vanity Fair\u2019s YouTube channel<\/a>, Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Caleb McLaughlin, Sadie Sink, and Gaten Matarazzo opened up their personal favorite and least favorite installments of the show.<\/p>\n<p>MBB ranked season 2 as her least favorite \u2014 though Finn and Noah threw their support behind that much-maligned edition \u2014 but chose both the first and fifth seasons as her top picks. &#8220;Season 1, nostalgia-wise, for me is my favorite season because personally, it was the most exciting time in my life,&#8221; the actress revealed, also praising season 5 for &#8220;the way it looks, the way it feels, the plot, all of it.&#8221; \u2014 CI<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T20:30:53.458Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-f235c00d-ff51-4f89-8ae2-708c808e817d\"\/>Character recap \u2014 Max Mayfield<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/rhpgTi2ED638BXH875dKuG.jpg\" alt=\"Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in STRANGER THINGS 4\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/rhpgTi2ED638BXH875dKuG.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/rhpgTi2ED638BXH875dKuG.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"412aff5e-b4a2-4cd0-b7fb-859b46221bb1\">Max ends season 4 badly. After volunteering to bait Vecna so the group could strike, she\u2019s brutally attacked. Her limbs are shattered, her eyes damaged, and her heart even stops. Miraculously, Eleven manages to revive her, but Max is left comatose in the hospital with broken bones and an uncertain fate.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s hard to say what will happen to her next since the new promo material barely shows her. However, I\u2019m convinced she\u2019ll eventually wake up or still play an important role, even if she\u2019s unconscious for part of the season. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T19:59:54.184Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-dcfaa195-021c-4627-8e52-6b572c7cf061\"\/>Test your \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 knowledge before season 5<\/p>\n<p id=\"982b3dd0-2fa4-4f55-a65a-f0da623236ad\">Think you know everything about Hawkins and the gang? Test your \u201cStranger Things\u201d knowledge with our quiz!<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T19:31:07.441Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-583c0b24-f3c9-4fea-8111-8db0c2f497f4\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 season 5 has a time jump<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/oPDM599SAZARA7arP3smyE.jpg\" alt=\"Priah Ferguson as Erica Sinclair in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/oPDM599SAZARA7arP3smyE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/oPDM599SAZARA7arP3smyE.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"569caa53-8345-4fb3-a7b4-cb2907833f48\">According to <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/variety.com\/2025\/tv\/features\/stranger-things-5-duffer-bros-ending-spinoffs-1236551615\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Variety<\/a>, \u201cStranger Things\u201d season\u202f5 picks up after an 18\u2011month time jump from the end of season\u202f4, which means a lot could have changed for our favorite characters. All the characters find themselves back in Hawkins, which is now under military lockdown. I\u2019m intrigued to see how the story will pan out with the main groups scattered. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T18:45:42.390Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-b78b4822-06b2-4fc4-83e2-6b4ab7c1d9c4\"\/>The Duffers say the final season will \u2018tie up every remaining storyline\u2019<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/aKxCDcSZgsKpNDT2AvVuG6.jpg\" alt=\"(L to R) Natalia Dyer as Nancy Wheeler, Joe Keery as Steve Harrington, Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson, Maya Hawke as Robin Buckley, Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield and Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair are lined up in Stranger Things 4\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/aKxCDcSZgsKpNDT2AvVuG6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/aKxCDcSZgsKpNDT2AvVuG6.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"82f70799-f582-4275-93c0-b5f25d80f9b7\">The Duffers have promised that season\u202f5 will leave no loose ends. Every storyline \u2014 from the mysteries of the Upside Down and Vecna\u2019s schemes to the fates of the characters we\u2019ve followed for years \u2014 is set to get proper closure. Fans can expect the final season to resolve long-running questions and finally tie together the threads that have been building since season\u202f1.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gamesradar.com\/entertainment\/sci-fi-shows\/stranger-things-season-5-cast-and-creators-talk-closing-the-door-on-the-upside-down-it-was-important-for-us-to-resolve-all-storylines-and-tie-up-any-loose-ends\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Matt Duffer told GamesRadar+<\/a>: \u201cTypically, when we&#8217;re working on a season, we don&#8217;t find the time to do everything and we&#8217;re able to kick the can down the road. That was not an option this time. We spent a long time with our writers \u2013 especially early on \u2013 making sure we got everything we wanted into the season. We wrote out everything, &#8216;These are the things we have to explain; this is where we need the characters to get.&#8217; Hopefully, we accomplish that.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s the showdown the show has been building toward, and the Duffers are making sure nothing is left unresolved. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T17:59:23.116Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-fc02eeaa-7038-4ca8-a8bc-0a035a6df5ea\"\/>10 movies to watch to get yourself in a &#8216;Stranger Things&#8217; mood<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/8bGYx5JnDGtBWQtbkYhqn5.jpg\" alt=\"Henry Thomas in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/8bGYx5JnDGtBWQtbkYhqn5.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/8bGYx5JnDGtBWQtbkYhqn5.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Alamy)<\/p>\n<p id=\"8ca1ad26-ea77-400e-81d3-a3b1ef101ec8\">Need something to take the edge off while you not-so-patiently wait for today&#8217;s &#8220;Stranger Things&#8221; season 5 premiere? Or, after that, to keep you busy until December 25, when the next batch of new episodes drops? You can give these fantastic flicks a watch \u2014 the Duffer Brothers have said that each title below helped directly influence and inspire the genre-jumping Netflix hit:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"0be644c0-544a-4075-ad85-38caeba4dc8c\">\n<li>Alien<\/li>\n<li>A Nightmare on Elm Street<\/li>\n<li>Carrie<\/li>\n<li>E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial<\/li>\n<li>Firestarter<\/li>\n<li>The Goonies<\/li>\n<li>Gremlins<\/li>\n<li>Jaws<\/li>\n<li>Poltergeist<\/li>\n<li>Stand by Me<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"f15b99a5-d626-4080-8d26-3edab262caa4\">\u2014 CI<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T17:13:48.644Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-3457bde2-9279-45dc-b0aa-3d3b1f3bf202\"\/>Character recap \u2014 Eleven <\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.24%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/MjkHE7nxXX4cbApd6DyCjQ.jpg\" alt=\"Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven, wearing her white vest\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/MjkHE7nxXX4cbApd6DyCjQ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/MjkHE7nxXX4cbApd6DyCjQ.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"c4820892-ac48-4e5d-80d9-ab797dcbb380\">Eleven ended season\u202f4 having regained her powers after undergoing the NINA program and confronting her traumatic past in the lab. She helped the group take on Vecna, entering a psychic battle inside Max\u2019s mind to somehow pull her back from the brink of death.<\/p>\n<p>Even though Vecna wasn\u2019t fully defeated and Hawkins ended the season fractured (with the Upside Down\u2019s influence creeping back in), Eleven returned to Hawkins with renewed purpose and power. Her journey through trauma and redemption has left her stronger and hopefully ready for the final showdown. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T16:29:19.045Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-ebc91585-eed1-4c09-bc86-1555fa9e3e02\"\/>The Duffers reveal the four \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 episodes to rewatch before season 5<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/uPowzT4KojLwJ9TJ2Dgvj5.jpg\" alt=\"Noah Schnapp as Will Byers in Stranger Things season 2\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/uPowzT4KojLwJ9TJ2Dgvj5.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/uPowzT4KojLwJ9TJ2Dgvj5.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"dc5359a6-95c4-43bf-b41a-97f545363cf6\">We&#8217;re not gonna sugarcoat it: Three years is a long time to wait for a new season of your favorite show. So you&#8217;ll be forgiven for needing a little plot refresh, especially with a series as action-packed as &#8220;Stranger Things.&#8221; Helpfully, for <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hollywoodreporter.com\/lists\/stranger-things-season-5-duffer-brothers-recommendations\/tktk-to-remember\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">The Hollywood Reporter<\/a>, show creators Matt and Ross Duffer have compiled four episodes they feel best deserve a rewatch ahead of tonight&#8217;s premiere. We&#8217;ll be keeping an eagle eye out for clues while giving these a second look:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"73f26eda-bde1-4919-bf92-87729797ba15\">\n<li><strong>\u201cWill the Wise\u201d<\/strong> (season 2 episode 4)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cThe Spy\u201d<\/strong> (season 2 episode 6)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cMassacre at Hawkins Lab\u201d<\/strong> (season 4 episode 7)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cThe Piggyback\u201d<\/strong> (season 4 episode 9)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"31b31b4f-b5ad-46fe-9e74-5b97cba16ad2\">\u2014 CI<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T15:50:37.941Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-6fef4d67-13a7-4e6a-a2d6-2346df757048\"\/>What we know about the music in season\u202f5<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/LyFPdSaccHkMUFaHKVLcZG.jpg\" alt=\"Stranger Things 4\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/LyFPdSaccHkMUFaHKVLcZG.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/LyFPdSaccHkMUFaHKVLcZG.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"1ed5a98e-4590-4e26-ab31-11e5c191beee\">\u201cStranger Things\u201d season\u202f5 is already teasing some epic musical moments. The trailer features Queen\u2019s &#8220;Who Wants to Live Forever,&#8221; hinting at a darker tone, and Kate Bush\u2019s &#8220;Running Up That Hill&#8221; is confirmed to return (h\/t <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/tv-and-radio\/2025\/nov\/14\/stranger-things-final-season-cast-interviews\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">The Guardian<\/a>), bringing back one of the show\u2019s most iconic emotional beats. Original composers Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein are back with their signature synth-heavy score, and the season may lean into music even more this time, with a radio\u2011station element built into the story. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T14:56:42.520Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-fb2f6f69-390b-4e8e-9bd7-96915a679cca\"\/>Need a mood boost? Watch the \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 cast attempt a cooking challenge<\/p>\n<p>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 Cast Test Their Basic Culinary Skills | Epicurious &#8211; YouTube<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764200373_991_maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 Cast Test Their Basic Culinary Skills | Epicurious - YouTube\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"watch-on-youtube-Xa_i7Mw5lwg\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Xa_i7Mw5lwg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch On <\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"00c75a1b-d498-4203-a8f5-34e88db6cabc\">For anyone bracing themselves for heartbreak and looking for a little joy while waiting for the new episodes, here\u2019s a fun treat: The cast takes on a culinary challenge! Watching them attempt (and sometimes hilariously fail) at cooking is the perfect way to ease the anxiety of the \u201cStranger Things\u201d wait. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T14:00:04.114Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-d7097eb6-728f-4dd2-94c0-a2b09aa0c013\"\/>Who is your favorite character from &#8216;Stranger Things&#8217;?<\/p>\n<p id=\"e7599279-59e6-479e-b1f8-d0f002a2f167\">\u201cStranger Things\u201d has given us so many unforgettable characters over the years, from brave kids fighting the Upside Down to heroes and villains who keep Hawkins on edge. Cast your vote below for your favorite character and see how the fandom stacks up!<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T13:42:29.761Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-f2954995-5463-4c90-9ed0-b9878d607679\"\/>So long between seasons that entire shows started and ended<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/hk9XNbyAPyEcdtDEMqqbp8.jpg\" alt=\"Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 4 on Netflix\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/hk9XNbyAPyEcdtDEMqqbp8.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/hk9XNbyAPyEcdtDEMqqbp8.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"d823319a-14ae-4676-b5a4-e0356ced8889\">It\u2019s been a long wait for \u201cStranger Things\u201d season\u202f5 \u2014 so long that in the time between season\u202f4 and now, a whole bunch of shows have come and gone, some even finishing their entire runs. \u201cThe Summer I Turned Pretty\u201d wrapped up with three seasons and \u201cThe Sandman\u201d had its finale. Meanwhile, we\u2019re still stuck in Hawkins, pacing the halls and waiting for the gang to face the Upside Down again. Patience though, because the first four episodes are almost here. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T13:32:24.137Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-c73fc1df-32d5-420f-82d5-48c6c1354442\"\/>My favorite moment of the entire series so far<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Gxvt7jgfz68sfyBLKfeJ66.jpg\" alt=\"Sadie Sink as Max, is levitating with her eyes going weird in Stranger Things season 4\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Gxvt7jgfz68sfyBLKfeJ66.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Gxvt7jgfz68sfyBLKfeJ66.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"97b38497-7798-4813-bc52-a9d775292a84\">My favorite moment in the show has to be Max escaping Vecna in season\u202f4 to Running Up That Hill. It\u2019s one of the best\u2011executed scenes in the show\u2019s history, and the soundtrack makes her escape feel truly powerful and unforgettable. <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.netflix.com\/tudum\/articles\/this-is-the-stranger-things-song-everyone-is-talking-about\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Streams reportedly jumped by over 8,700% globally after season\u202f4 dropped<\/a>, showing just how iconic Kate Bush\u2019s song really is. Out of all the crazy stuff that happens in \u201cStranger Things,\u201d that\u2019s the one scene I keep thinking about. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T13:22:32.220Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-02398b87-6c1d-4398-b9cb-7b469e33dc46\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 fans are speculating who might die in season 5<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/p5F6eruNFqoTksZwMGG74k.jpg\" alt=\"Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson and Joe Keery as Steve Harrington in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/p5F6eruNFqoTksZwMGG74k.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/p5F6eruNFqoTksZwMGG74k.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"b47febce-b090-444d-920d-354f2c675762\">Speculation is running wild about who might not make it through. One of the most frequently mentioned names is Will Byers as many believe his long, creepy connection to the Upside Down could finally catch up with him. Some argue that Will\u2019s psychic link to the darkness might make him the sacrifice needed to seal away the threat.<\/p>\n<p>Another major candidate is Steve Harrington, whose arc from selfish teen to protective older\u2011brother figure has won him a place in many fans\u2019 hearts. Given his readiness to risk himself for others, a heroic (if heartbreaking) death feels like it could fit this final season. Some speculate that Steve might go out saving friends or loved ones, making his loss especially emotional.<\/p>\n<p>That said, there\u2019s also a widespread fear that the show might pull the rug out from under even the \u201csafer\u201d characters, including Eleven. Because she\u2019s the heart of the fight against evil, some fans think the only way to end things properly might be her ultimate sacrifice, even if it\u2019s hard to imagine the series without her. Of course that\u2019s the thing about fan theories: nothing\u2019s confirmed. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T13:10:38.421Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-d62254b1-2539-4c74-a8ce-1183c0b77553\"\/>\u2018The Tonight Show\u2019 gets a \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 series recap, in rap form <\/p>\n<p>The Stranger Things Cast Raps a Recap of the Entire Series in One Minute on The Tonight Show &#8211; YouTube<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764200378_752_maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"The Stranger Things Cast Raps a Recap of the Entire Series in One Minute on The Tonight Show - YouTube\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"watch-on-youtube--cQ_V7rBHeY\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/-cQ_V7rBHeY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch On <\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"a6b1f972-90aa-4401-964b-4c8ae69b0f11\">The cast of \u201cStranger Things\u201d just gave fans a hilarious and lightning-fast trip through Hawkins\u2019 history. On The Tonight Show, they rapped their way through all the twists, turns, and Upside Down chaos from the series in just one minute. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T13:00:06.721Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-38cd012d-739b-45fe-b05b-b7e6ae4734d8\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 fan theories: What might happen in season 5?<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/gcGNQJsXppxXneW32eTXAh.jpg\" alt=\"Linda Hamilton as Dr. Kay in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/gcGNQJsXppxXneW32eTXAh.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/gcGNQJsXppxXneW32eTXAh.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"70e10076-38ab-4c7c-88c0-2c97cdbeefaa\">Fans have been buzzing with theories about \u201cStranger Things\u201d season\u202f5, and some are already looking like they might be spot on. One of the most talked-about ideas (that Will could become a host for Vecna) was actually hinted at in the first five minutes of released footage, making it feel almost inevitable.<\/p>\n<p>Others suggest time travel or alternate realities could rewrite history, maybe even undoing the lab experiments that birthed Eleven\u2019s powers (h\/t <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/popcornsushi.com\/top-7-theories-for-stranger-things-final-episodes-that-could-actually-happen\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Popcorn Sushi<\/a>). Then there\u2019s the emo\u2011fantasy theory: Eddie didn\u2019t really die, but was reanimated in the Upside Down as the D&amp;D villain Kas the Bloody-Handed (h\/t <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/studybreaks.com\/tvfilm\/6-craziest-fan-theories-stranger-things-season-5\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Study Breaks<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, some fans think Eleven could flip the Upside Down into a realm of light \u2014 a phenomenon they\u2019re calling the \u201cRightside Up\u201d (h\/t <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brit.co\/stranger-things-season-5-theory-eleven-upside-down\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Brit + Co<\/a>). There\u2019s also chatter that Vecna might not be the ultimate evil, and that a resurrected Mind Flayer could be the real final threat (h\/t <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/popcornsushi.com\/top-7-theories-for-stranger-things-final-episodes-that-could-actually-happen\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">Popcorn Sushi<\/a>). \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T12:42:24.593Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-3756a7dc-9ef7-4771-bc18-46c8cab4f076\"\/>Word search time!<\/p>\n<p id=\"e1acec06-c9bb-47ad-803d-2aa532d3f2af\">Here\u2019s a quick break for something fun. I\u2019ve put together a \u201cStranger Things\u201d themed wordsearch to test your Hawkins knowledge (and maybe distract you from all the impending doom season 5 keeps teasing).<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T12:32:57.479Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-5f4f2882-536c-40a6-9485-1013f4f41243\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 stars reflect on final season at premiere <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet hawk-ignore\" data-lang=\"en\">\n<p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Millie Bobby Brown says Stranger Things 5 is for everyone who loved Season 1 pic.twitter.com\/CT01yIZBqj<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/1986624142385483968\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">November 7, 2025<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p id=\"049a5b31-46d7-492b-887a-f8ab45d4d18c\">The \u201cStranger Things\u201d season 5 cast recently hit the red carpet for their emotionally charged premiere at the TCL Chinese Theatre, and they didn\u2019t hold back. Millie Bobby Brown called the event a \u201cfuneral for the show,\u201d donning a dramatic Rodarte gown and reflecting on Eleven\u2019s mission in the final episodes. Charlie Heaton and Joe Keery opened up about how proud they are of this massive, emotional season, calling it a powerful finale that ties everything together. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T12:19:52.744Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-9ad957e0-84c8-458e-8ace-0833c74f4ca4\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 season 5 finale will hit theaters<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XSyxHAhgMWrvdKfrukWAFg.jpg\" alt=\"Charlie Heaton as Jonathan Byers and Natalia Dyer as Nancy Wheeler in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XSyxHAhgMWrvdKfrukWAFg.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/XSyxHAhgMWrvdKfrukWAFg.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"33130655-8112-4e99-88c1-8b5e79a9e067\">\u201cStranger Things\u201d will go out with a bang because the two-hour season\u202f5 finale will drop on Netflix and hit the big screen in over 350 theaters across the <strong>U.S. and Canada on December\u202f31,\u202f2025, starting at 5\u202fPM PT \/ 8\u202fPM ET<\/strong>. It\u2019s a dream\u2011come-true for creators and fans alike, watching the final chapter with cinematic sound, picture, and an audience feels like the perfect way to close out the show\u2019s incredible journey.<\/p>\n<p>You can check local showtimes on sites like Fandango or your favorite cinema chain, such as Regal. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T11:59:29.272Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-1f3e0614-752e-448b-b69b-32f9c1e5c01f\"\/>Every season of \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 ranked<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/bPEVHogB27enQJsqrZb6kJ.jpg\" alt=\"Jamie Campbell Bower as Vecna in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season4 on Netflix\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/bPEVHogB27enQJsqrZb6kJ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/bPEVHogB27enQJsqrZb6kJ.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"42ad3acf-b27b-4474-9111-97893d14e801\">Curious how \u201cStranger Things\u201d seasons stack up? Check out our <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/entertainment\/netflix\/every-season-of-stranger-things-ranked-from-worst-to-best\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/entertainment\/netflix\/every-season-of-stranger-things-ranked-from-worst-to-best\" rel=\"noopener\">season ranking guide<\/a>, where we break down every season from best to\u2026 well, least best. It\u2019s a fun way to revisit the show\u2019s\u2019 ups, downs, and terrifying twists before diving into season\u202f5. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T11:30:06.427Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-8864198f-e254-476f-a884-27ec59898f9f\"\/>What you need to know before \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 season 5<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Q6m7x9eqsQaJfvydH8rVUE.jpg\" alt=\"Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair and Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Q6m7x9eqsQaJfvydH8rVUE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Q6m7x9eqsQaJfvydH8rVUE.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"a549b083-3c60-43dd-9ffb-b6fd461c5180\">Need a quick refresher before diving into season\u202f5? Check out our<a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/entertainment\/netflix\/7-things-you-need-to-remember-before-stranger-things-season-5\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/entertainment\/netflix\/7-things-you-need-to-remember-before-stranger-things-season-5\" rel=\"noopener\"> \u201cThings to Remember\u201d guide<\/a>, where we recap key events, character arcs, and major twists from previous seasons, everything you need to get back up to speed in Hawkins before the new episodes hit. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T11:06:36.383Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-be11347f-791c-4562-94a9-c8aa25c786d2\"\/>Here are the new faces to keep an eye out for in season 5<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/YpokCdknRxVpJ986svDtBL.jpg\" alt=\"Nell Fisher as Holly Wheeler in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/YpokCdknRxVpJ986svDtBL.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/YpokCdknRxVpJ986svDtBL.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"2029787e-ce7c-4bb5-9504-0fe4dbad647c\">Despite having just eight episodes left, \u201cStranger Things\u201d is still adding to a stacked cast in season 5. These aren\u2019t all up-and-coming actors either. The list includes Linda Hamilton, who became a screen icon in the Terminator franchise. Here\u2019s the full list of all the new characters in \u201cStranger Things\u201d season 5:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"131fa84f-9d75-4cc5-bc6d-e8881967cc85\">\n<li><strong>Linda Hamilton as Dr. Kay<\/strong>, a scientist attempting to unlock secrets of the Upside Down. She\u2019s hunting Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Alex Breaux as Lt. Robert Akers<\/strong>, a key member of Dr. Kay\u2019s team<\/li>\n<li><strong>Nell Fisher as Holly Wheeler<\/strong>, Mike\u2019s (Finn Wolfhard) younger sister, and someone who is tipped to have a major role in these final episodes<\/li>\n<li><strong>Jake Connelly plays Derek Turnbow<\/strong>, one of Holly\u2019s classmates, but decidedly not her friend<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"b492bb50-8dd4-47cc-9d52-16a6f9045433\">I know that Holly and Derek are probably the more intriguing newcomers, given that Holly is slated to have a big role and Derek is at odds with her. But it\u2019s Linda Hamilton I\u2019m most curious about. Having her be a major villain, or possibly a villain turned hero, makes her, by far, the newcomer I\u2019m most excited about. \u2014 MM<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T10:30:03.815Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-bb5f124a-a946-4ee0-8fda-c0f0a57c1e35\"\/>The first five minutes of \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 season 5 <\/p>\n<p>Stranger Things 5 | First Five Minutes | Netflix &#8211; YouTube<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764200384_337_maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"Stranger Things 5 | First Five Minutes | Netflix - YouTube\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"watch-on-youtube-vhFPHYgILN0\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/vhFPHYgILN0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch On <\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"bd27702e-4820-47f0-89df-0597eb29b193\">Netflix dropped the chilling first five minutes of \u201cStranger Things\u201d season 5 a couple weeks back, and it quickly takes us back to November\u202f1983 in the Upside Down. A terrified, de\u2011aged Will Byers sits in Castle Byers, softly singing \u201cShould I Stay or Should I Go\u201d to calm himself. But the peace is shattered when a Demogorgon attacks, dragging him through the twisted forest straight to Vecna, who whispers: \u201cAt long last, we can begin\u2026 You and I, we\u2019re going to do such beautiful things together.\u201d \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T10:18:08.294Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-1f7f4f95-bac3-4b66-89e7-42a6f87fabc6\"\/>Buckle up \u2014 \u2018Stranger Things\u2019 season 5 will take you over 10 hours to watch<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/kfg9Ng4VbqfskdDyZzQV4U.jpg\" alt=\"Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/kfg9Ng4VbqfskdDyZzQV4U.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/kfg9Ng4VbqfskdDyZzQV4U.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"46bab2ce-229d-4d6d-b3f0-2cfd5be8f10a\">Okay, now you know when the episodes of \u201cStranger Things\u201d season 5 drop, and you know what the names of the episodes are. But how long will it take you to watch all eight episodes and get to the end of this nearly decade-long series? Well, I\u2019ve got the answer to that too. Here are the runtimes for all eight episodes:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"b1513dce-49cc-4314-ad5f-19dca21cf90d\">\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter One: The Crawl\u201d: 1 hour and eight minutes<\/strong> (Wed., Nov. 26, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Two: The Vanishing of\u2026\u201d: 54 minutes <\/strong>(Wed., Nov. 26, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Three: The Turnbow Trap\u201d: 1 hour and 6 minutes<\/strong> (Wed., Nov. 26, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Four: Sorcerer\u201d: 1 hour and 23 minutes<\/strong> (Wed., Nov. 26, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Five: Shock Jock\u201d: 1 hour and 17 minutes<\/strong> (Thurs., Dec. 25, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Six: Escape from Camazotz\u201d: 58 minutes<\/strong> (Thurs., Dec. 25, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Seven: The Bridge\u201d: 1 hour and 37 minutes<\/strong> (Thurs., Dec. 25, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Eight: The Rightside Up\u201d: 2 hours and 1 minute<\/strong> (Wed., Dec. 31, 8 p.m. ET)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"31e6a8a5-5c1b-45ae-94f2-11a05ac2650b\">For those trying to do the math at home, that\u2019s 10 hours and 24 minutes for all eight episodes. The longest volume is, unsurprisingly, volume 1, which clocks in at just over four and a half hours. Volume 2 has longer episodes than volume 1, though, with an average episode length of over 77 minutes. Of course, the longest episode is the last one, clocking in at a feature-length movie runtime of 2 hours and 1 minute. Maybe it\u2019s no surprise that Netflix is putting that episode in theaters. \u2014 MM<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T10:09:49.755Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-b1093d48-0e5d-4f15-9bfd-0b4b1d6e47d7\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 cast spill pranks and secrets<\/p>\n<p>The Stranger Things cast on pranks, bloopers, rude fans and what they &#8216;stole&#8217; from Season 5. &#8211; YouTube<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764200387_118_maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"The Stranger Things cast on pranks, bloopers, rude fans and what they 'stole' from Season 5. - YouTube\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"watch-on-youtube-2aXOZwaVxDw\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/2aXOZwaVxDw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch On <\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"66db5890-193d-4877-bb1f-e882d0556eca\">While we wait for the episodes (and grab a little happiness before the inevitable heartbreak) why not check out a fun cast interview? The stars of \u201cStranger Things\u201d spill on on-set pranks, hilarious bloopers, encounters with rude fans, and even what they \u201cstole\u201d from season\u202f5. It\u2019s the perfect way to get a behind-the-scenes peek before Hawkins descends into chaos once again. \u2014 AB<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T09:58:34.141Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-52908230-05a7-4460-b717-a729d1a7e4c8\"\/>Take the quiz \u2014 who are you in \u2018Stranger Things\u2019?<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/LamT2qE5p79hBXSB9jtPK6.jpg\" alt=\"Charlie Heaton as Jonathan Byers, Winona Ryder as Joyce Byers, Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven, Noah Schnapp as Will Byers, David Harbour as Jim Hopper, Natalia Dyer as Nancy Wheeler, and Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 4\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/LamT2qE5p79hBXSB9jtPK6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/LamT2qE5p79hBXSB9jtPK6.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"89638ea5-b8dd-47ad-97c5-6198bdd78d3a\">Ever wondered which \u201cStranger Things\u201d character you\u2019re most like? Take our fun quiz to find out if you\u2019re a daring Eleven, clever Dustin, loyal Mike, or someone else entirely.<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T09:48:12.721Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-f149f48b-6c59-45a1-af20-287c3d58bbdd\"\/>Here\u2019s the latest trailer in case you missed it<\/p>\n<p>Stranger Things 5 | Volume 1 Trailer | Netflix &#8211; YouTube<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764200389_434_maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"Stranger Things 5 | Volume 1 Trailer | Netflix - YouTube\" data-aspect-ratio=\"16\/9\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"watch-on-youtube-D8Qxxq0Oh9M\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/D8Qxxq0Oh9M\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch On <\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"8e47c0fd-7c69-4535-8190-0cc20a240349\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/entertainment\/netflix\/netflix-drops-new-stranger-things-season-5-trailer-and-demogorgons-are-taking-over-hawkins\" target=\"_blank\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/entertainment\/netflix\/netflix-drops-new-stranger-things-season-5-trailer-and-demogorgons-are-taking-over-hawkins\" rel=\"noopener\">Netflix\u2019s new trailer for \u201cStranger Things\u201d season\u202f5 volume\u202f1<\/a> hints at an epic finale, with the Upside Down spilling into Hawkins and danger looming for every character. The town is scarred, quarantined, and the gang is back, preparing for a final showdown against Vecna. Demogorgons erupt from the ground, portals glow red, and Eleven unleashes her powers like never before. Emotional stakes are high, and it\u2019s clear no one is holding back this season. \u2014 Alix Blackburn<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T09:38:04.991Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-223ef4fb-4fed-4be8-8c04-f9cc5d8c7db9\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 season 5 episode titles revealed!<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/MpyKCCWUoyqCrLpFyBqkN7.jpg\" alt=\"Winona Ryder as Joyce Byers in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/MpyKCCWUoyqCrLpFyBqkN7.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/MpyKCCWUoyqCrLpFyBqkN7.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"b36abec2-4b83-4e41-ae25-198ef19b654a\">Now that you know when episodes of \u201cStranger Things\u201d season 5 will be dropping on Netflix, you might be curious what the titles of the episodes are. Lucky for you, that information is out there, and I\u2019ve compiled the complete list of episode titles below:<\/p>\n<p>Personally, I\u2019m most intrigued by the title of \u201cChapter Two.\u201d Who vanishes? And do they disappear for good? We don\u2019t have to wait much longer to find out. \u2014 MM<\/p>\n<ul id=\"cf2bc4bd-9ea1-4c6b-8735-6fa6c1660d0f\">\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter One: The Crawl\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Two: The Vanishing of\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Three: The Turnbow Trap\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Four: Sorcerer\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Five: Shock Jock\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Six: Escape from Camazotz\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Seven: The Bridge\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cChapter Eight: The Rightside Up\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>2025-11-26T09:28:58.053Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-bc9c49aa-b227-46ca-a2dd-ec4b918c738c\"\/>\u2018Stranger Things\u2019 season 5 ditches the binge model for a three-volume release schedule<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/RBf296iiYoLtjnapttoE5G.jpg\" alt=\"David Harbour as Jim Hopper and Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven in &quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5 on Netflix\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/RBf296iiYoLtjnapttoE5G.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/RBf296iiYoLtjnapttoE5G.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"5275e0f5-e335-41ea-8eef-f516d912f89e\">Despite being famous for its binge-drop model, Netflix is decidedly milking everything it can out of the final season of \u201cStranger Things.\u201d Rather than dropping all eight episodes at once, season 5 will be released in three volumes. Volume 1 and volume 2 are essentially mini binge-drops, but volume 3 is just one episode: the series\u2019 two-hour-and-one-minute-long finale, which is also getting a theatrical release. See the full \u201cStranger Things\u201d season 5 release schedule below:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Volume 1: <\/strong>Episodes 1-4 (Releases at 8 p.m. ET on Nov. 26)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Volume 2: <\/strong>Episodes 5-7 (Releases at 8 p.m. ET on Dec. 25)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Volume 3: <\/strong>Episode 8 (Releases at 8 p.m. ET on Dec. 31)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Malcolm McMillan<\/p>\n<p>2025-11-26T08:46:30.155Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-0cf6adc8-ee23-4e01-b24a-69901cf7aba3\"\/>Welcome! <\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:56.25%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/tSJxYhDBdjToYdQvfk6aQV.jpg\" alt=\"&quot;Stranger Things&quot; season 5 poster\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/tSJxYhDBdjToYdQvfk6aQV.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/tSJxYhDBdjToYdQvfk6aQV.jpg\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Netflix)<\/p>\n<p id=\"1711f203-87f8-411f-bbaf-9b9a1234f16d\">Welcome to our \u201cStranger Things\u201d season 5 live blog! Whether you\u2019re a longtime Hawkins fan or catching up for the first time, this is your go-to spot for episode previews, character recaps, release info, and all the latest updates. Stay tuned because we\u2019ll be updating everything as the season unfolds!<\/p>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Refresh 2025-11-26T23:30:19.193Z &#8220;Nothing else is like this&#8221;: Sadie Sink on the bond between the &#8220;Stranger Things&#8221; cast (Image&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":596007,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3937],"tags":[77,382,16,15],"class_list":{"0":"post-596006","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-tv","8":"tag-entertainment","9":"tag-tv","10":"tag-uk","11":"tag-united-kingdom"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/115618647921655968","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/596006","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=596006"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/596006\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/596007"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=596006"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=596006"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=596006"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}