A highlight of Stranger Things is how well the show pairs up characters, creating surprising and compelling duos. These relationships – whether friendly, romantic, or even reluctant – have been central to many of the show’s most iconic and important scenes. While there have been countless pairings, some have been particularly funny, touching, intense, and emotionally powerful, and will likely remain memorable long after the final season airs.
Beyond the main relationships, several other pairings really stood out in Stranger Things, like Eleven and Max, Murray and Alexei, Will and Jonathan, Joyce and Bob, and especially Mike and Eleven. Some of these connections became surprisingly important to the story, and their strong, unwavering bonds could be crucial in the final fight against Vecna in season 5.
10) Nancy Wheeler and Jonathan Byers
Nancy Wheeler and Jonathan Byers have a strong connection both on and off screen in Stranger Things. Their real-life relationship translates to amazing chemistry, making them a compelling duo whether they’re investigating mysteries for the Hawkins Post or battling monsters from the Upside Down. While Nancy’s friendship with Steve Harrington is enjoyable and hints at a possible romance, it’s clear that her true connection is with Jonathan.
9) Murray Bauman and Joyce Byers
Although Stranger Things is known for its young actors, the relationships between the adult characters have been a highlight. The connection between Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder) and Murray Bauman (Brett Gelman) is a prime example. Brought together mainly in seasons 3 and 4, this pair has provided some of the show’s most humorous and engaging scenes. They’ve also proven to be a remarkably effective team, with their commitment, expertise, and willingness to take risks allowing them to travel to Russia and rescue Hopper (David Harbour).
8) Steve Harrington and Dustin Henderson
When Stranger Things began, no one expected Steve Harrington and Dustin Henderson to become such a memorable pair. Their unlikely friendship started in season two when Dustin needed Steve’s help with a baby Demogorgon named Dart. Since then, they’ve repeatedly come to each other’s aid, including investigating the Russians under the Starcourt Mall. While their bond faced challenges after Eddie Munson appeared in season four, the upcoming fifth season of Stranger Things suggests we’ll see this beloved duo reunite.
7) Max Mayfield and Lucas Sinclair
Sadie Sink joined the cast of Stranger Things as Max Mayfield in season 2, and she and Lucas Sinclair (Caleb McLaughlin) quickly developed a romantic connection after she moved to Hawkins. Their relationship faced many challenges, most dramatically when Max was briefly killed by Vecna. Though Eleven tried to save her, Max ended up in a coma, with her mind trapped in Vecna’s control. Throughout it all, Lucas has remained deeply committed to Max and is willing to do anything to help her, demonstrating significant personal growth over the course of the series.
6) Dustin Henderson and Eddie Munson
Dustin’s connection with Steve is enjoyable to watch, but his friendship with Eddie in Stranger Things season 4 is particularly strong. They share a love for Dungeons & Dragons and are both part of the Hellfire Club, which helps them grow as individuals. Dustin finds his voice and becomes more self-assured, while Eddie ultimately proves himself a hero, even making the ultimate sacrifice for his friends. This bond doesn’t end with Eddie’s death; Dustin continues to be affected by his loss in season 5 of Stranger Things.
5) Mike Wheeler and Will Byers
We didn’t include Mike Wheeler and Eleven’s relationship on this list because it’s had its ups and downs. However, the friendship between Mike and Will Byers is unbreakable. They’ve been friends since childhood, and facing difficult experiences together has only made their bond stronger and more meaningful. Even though Will has romantic feelings for Mike that aren’t returned, their connection gives them the strength to fight Vecna, and has even motivated Will to use Vecna’s own powers against him.
4) Robin Buckley and Steve Harrington
Steve Harrington’s character development in Stranger Things has been remarkable, and his relationships with Nancy and Dustin have contributed to that. However, his friendship with Robin Buckley (Maya Hawke) has been particularly wonderful to watch. Since debuting in season 3, Robin has become a key part of the show, and she’s often paired with Steve. Their chemistry is fantastic, leading to some of the series’ most memorable scenes, and both characters are fiercely loyal to their friends, even in the face of extreme danger like Russian torture.
3) Will Byers and Robin Buckley
I’ve really enjoyed watching Robin’s friendship with Steve grow, but honestly, her connection with Will Byers feels way more important. Seeing her kiss her girlfriend at the hospital was a great moment, and then Will turning to her for help as he explores his own identity? It was incredibly powerful. The way Robin’s advice seemed to unlock something in Will, even potentially fueling his powers in the upcoming season 5 of Stranger Things, was just amazing. I’m seriously excited to see how their unlikely friendship unfolds in the new episodes.
2) Joyce Byers and Jim Hopper
It’s easy to see why Jim Hopper, played by David Harbour, consistently ranks as one of the most popular characters in Stranger Things. As the former police chief of Hawkins, he’s been central to the adult storyline, especially through his partnership with Joyce Byers. When Joyce’s son went missing in the first season, she turned to Hopper, a high school friend, for help. Their relationship has evolved over the seasons, with plenty of ups and downs, ultimately leading to a truly rewarding and touching story arc.
1) Eleven and Jim Hopper
Though his relationship with Joyce is remarkable, the bond between Hopper and Eleven – who he later legally adopted as Jane Hopper – is the most heartwarming connection in Stranger Things. From the moment they met in season 1, Eleven and Hopper quickly developed a father-daughter dynamic that grew into a formal adoption. Hopper’s supposed death deeply affected Eleven, and his eventual return was incredibly emotional. Now, in season 5, they’re facing a dangerous mission together into the Upside Down, and fans are hoping for a happier outcome for this beloved pair.
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2025-12-03 00:44