Stranger Things Season 5: Deaths, Netflix, and Steve
Written by Lucas Ward on 27th November 2025
The long-awaited return of Stranger Things has finally arrived, but what do we need to know about Season 5? When can we watch the latest episodes? What characters are at risk? Where did Season 4 end, and what can we expect from the final season?
WHEN CAN WE WATCH STRANGER THINGS SEASON FIVE?
Season 4 was released back in 2022, so we have had some time to wait before the continuation, and end, of the Hawkins story. In an attempt to maintain viewing figures, the episodes will be released in three stages. Due to the nature of a global streaming service like Netflix, each instalment is to be released at the same time no matter where in the world the audience is. This means that British audiences won’t be able to watch the first four episodes until 01:00 GMT on Thursday, November 27. The next three will be available on Boxing Day, with the grand finale streaming from New Year’s Day.
WHO IS IN SEASON FIVE? WHO WILL DIE?
There has been immense speculation as to who will survive the final season of the show. Stranger Things has kickstarted the careers of so many young actors, and revitalised those of its older cast members. The unquestionable star is Millie Bobby Brown, who portrays the powerful Eleven, but will she make it to New Year’s Day, or will Vecna get his revenge? Another actress who could find herself with an early exit from the season is Sadie Sink, whose character Max joined the show in Season Two. She can expect a big 2026, as she is set to feature in the brand new Spider-Man film, as well as portray the female protagonist in a West End production of Romeo & Juliet. Could a dramatic exit from Hawkins build the buzz she needs?
A character that many fans are hoping not to see die this season is Steve Harrington (the charming Joe Keery). Steve’s popularity led to his character being promoted from recurring cast in the first season, to a regular character ever since. His character arc from an unlikeable jock to a brave and caring friend to his fellow characters has meant that fans are fearful of losing Steve at such a late point in the story.
Stranger Things has also brought about a second coming for the careers of Winona Ryder and David Harbour, as Joyce and Hopper respectively. Ryder saw her roles dry out after a shoplifting charge in the States, and it wasn’t until the Duffer Brothers cast her as the mother of disappearing child Will Byers that she was brought back into the public eye. As for David Harbour, the release that should be the highlight of his career thus far has been overshadowed by supposed allegations of bullying and harassment from his co-star Millie Bobby Brown, and the recent degrading new music from his ex-wife Lily Allen. Will an early death for Hopper mean the series can continue without these unwanted reports hanging over it?
WHAT HAPPENED IN SEASON FOUR?
At the end of Season Four, it appeared that Henry Kreel has transformed into Vecna, and had successfully killed Max. Having split up in attempt to defeat the villain, the whole gang seem to have succeeded however, when Eleven attempts to revive her best friend, she provides Vecna a second chance, as the Upside Down makes its way into their hometown of Hawkins. What comes next remains to be seen, but we can expect many twists and turns as the epic saga of Stranger Things reaches its conclusion.
