BY KAYLEE WEINGARTEN
Student Life Editor
On November 26, Volume 1 of the last season of Stranger Things dropped on Netflix. This season broke a record as Netflix’s biggest English-language debut with 59.6 million views in its first five days.
The creators of the show, The Duffer Brothers, introduced new plot lines as well as new characters. “My favorite new character is probably Derek because he is funny and helped lighten the season up,” said Emma Signorile.
Though Volume 1 includes only four episodes, many moments caught viewers’ attention. “My favorite part from season 5 vol. 1 was when Max came to save Holly Wheeler from Vecna. I was so shocked and so happy because I thought she wasn’t coming back this soon,” said Isabella Monaco.
While the main characters worry about saving Hawkins, fans theorize about the relationships that could bloom. “Shipping” characters has caused many debates between viewers with popular ships like Mileven (Mike and Eleven), Stancy (Steve and Nancy), and Byler (Mike and Will). “I like Lumax because they are cute and Lucas cares for her,” said Signorile.
Five action-packed seasons make anything possible in the finale, but fans have many different ideas on how it will end. “I think that the show will have a happier ending than many people expect- though I do think a major character like Nancy, Johnathan, or Steve will be killed off during the final battles,” said Nicholas Lugo. “I could also see a plot twist between either Will or El being a crucial sacrifice to kill Vecna, but I hope not.”
Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a prequel stage play to the events of the show, premiered for the first time on December 14, 2023. “Seeing the play gave me a completely new view about Henry/Vecna and his story, especially with season 5 making hints to events you would only know if you saw The First Shadow,” said Safija Shatku.
The finale, dropping on New Years’ Eve, ends a nearly ten-year run of epic battles, interdimensional monsters, and telekinetic powers that kept everyone entertained. “I watch Stranger Things because it lets me step into a world where friendship feels unbreakable, and the story keeps me on the edge of my seat,” said Riley Cleary.
Watch Volume 2 on Christmas Day at 8 pm and enjoy the fleeting moments of this never-ending story.
Posted on December 18,2025
Photos provided by Nicholas Lugo, Dayami Viloria, and Kaylee Weingarten
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