From demogorgons to mindflayers, and now to the final fight with Vecna, Hawkins has faced every nightmare the Upside Down has unleashed – but nothing compares for what’s to come in the final season of “Stranger Things.” As the town stands on the edge of its darkest chapter yet, longtime fans and even new viewers brace themselves for a finale that promises heartbreak, high stakes, and sentimental goodbyes the series has ever delivered. With the fate of Hawkins, and possibly the entire world hanging on by a thread, the countdown towards the finale has never been more exhilarating yet terrifying.
Ytzel Ramirez (12), a long-time admirer of the show, expresses her thoughts and theories she’s read in the media on this upcoming season. “I’ve seen this theory that the therapist of the high school is some sort of spy for Vecna. She has connections to the people Vecna has targeted and it was stated that she was wearing a necklace with a clock pendant which could also be a connection since we know Vecna is very in tune with the time.” As predictions for the finale spark conversations online, they have also turned towards character arcs such as many fans sharing their love for Steve Harrington, a then arrogant jock who eventually became the series’ sweetheart throughout the show. “I feel like people don’t give him enough credit for being the hero in a lot of situations, and for taking care of the group of kids even though he’s basically a kid himself,” Ramirez said. Burtei Battulga (12) added, “I liked his character development and his friendship with the group, especially Dustin. They’re such a cute duo.”
Emily Ormiston (12), another dedicated fan, recalls the season that made her fall in love with the series in the first place. “My favorite season is probably season three – it just tops all the other seasons because it had such a nostalgic summery vibe to it, and it was so hyped up at the time. It was just like an experience you had to be there for. I miss that era.”
Despite the series coming to an end, fans find the many reasons why Stranger Things is worth watching. “It has such a unique storyline and it’s refreshing to see something set in the 1980s and 1990s,” Ormiston states. “It’s about adventure, and it also has really good music,” she continues.
Ramirez also agrees, adding that the series did an amazing job at building its story. “I feel like it does a really good job of setting up the universe and introducing all the characters,” she says. “One scene that really stuck to me was one of the last scenes in season three, where they’re blowing up the Mind Flayer with fireworks.”.
As the credits for Stranger Things roll one last time, Hawkins will fade, and the bikes will stop pedaling all throughout Indiana. Yet echoes of the bonds and nostalgia will forever stay with its viewers long after the Upside Down has dimmed its lights. Perhaps that is the beauty of this show… it leaves you gut-wrenched and haunted in the best way.
