5 Greatest Performances in Stranger Things (#3 Was Wasted in the End)

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When Stranger Things first came out, it was promoted as a show filled with monsters, 80s vibes, and huge, dramatic scenes. But the actors were truly what made it work. Especially when the writing wasn’t its best – which happened occasionally – the performances saved the show. It was great to see some of the actors develop as their characters evolved, while others had standout moments in particular seasons. A few talented actors weren’t given the material they deserved, but overall, the series proves that certain performances were much more impactful than people realize.

Considering the overall impact on the show, character development over all five seasons, how much screen time each actor had, and, crucially, how well they brought their scenes to life, we’ve compiled a list of the five best performances in Stranger Things. With such a large cast, it was tough to choose, but certain actors truly shined.

5) Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers)

Winona Ryder’s performance in Stranger Things might not always be the most showy, but that’s because her character wasn’t meant to dominate the story. However, she was absolutely crucial to the show’s success from the start. In fact, without a convincing performance from Ryder in the first two seasons, the entire show could have fallen apart. She perfectly portrays a mother’s desperate panic when faced with something impossible, keeping it grounded and real. Her unwavering belief in the unbelievable is what truly draws the audience into that strange world.

Overall, the character ended up primarily functioning as a plot device – someone who solved problems and kept the story moving. While she becomes more important when the show’s adult themes are clearer in Season 4, it’s revealed that the actress wasn’t acting poorly, but simply wasn’t given enough interesting material. Unlike other performances that developed over time, this character feels somewhat stagnant. Despite this, the actress consistently delivers a committed and natural performance, adding authenticity to every scene.

4) Dacre Montgomery (Billy Hargrove)

I always thought Billy Hargrove could have been a totally one-dimensional villain – just another loud, typical bully. But Dacre Montgomery completely avoided that! From the moment he showed up in Season 2, he brought this really intense, unsettling physical presence to the character that actually worked with the story. Billy wasn’t trying to be liked, he was there to cause trouble and disrupt things. But honestly, it was in Season 3, when he was possessed by the Mind Flayer, that he really blew me away. I think it’s one of the most underrated performances in Stranger Things, and easily one of the strongest the show has ever seen.

Montgomery delivers a heartbreaking performance as Billy. He expertly conveys both a threatening presence, visible in Billy’s expressions and body language, and a deep, underlying pain—a pain he never uses to justify his actions. Despite limited screen time, Montgomery completely captivates the audience and creates a truly memorable character, particularly in the powerful scene of Billy’s death. It’s a reminder that a performer’s impact isn’t about quantity, but quality of presence.

3) Sadie Sink (Max Mayfield)

While Sadie Sink might not always be considered the most technically skilled actor on Stranger Things, she truly carried Season 4. Max became the heart of the season, and Sink delivered a powerful performance, fully embodying the character’s painful past. It was a simple, raw, and incredibly effective portrayal. Sink made Max’s grief, guilt, and loneliness feel genuine and deeply felt – not just in dramatic scenes, but in every small reaction, making it consistently impactful.

The problem with the show is that it sets up Max as a really important character, but then doesn’t give her enough to do afterward. Sadie Sink’s performance is so good that it overshadows the storyline she’s given, which some viewers feel doesn’t live up to her talent. While it makes sense that Max couldn’t be with everyone in the Upside Down, her performance ultimately feels underused in the final season. Despite this, it’s clear how powerful her acting was and the lasting impression she made.

2) Noah Schnapp (Will Byers)

Noah Schnapp’s portrayal of Will is the heart of Stranger Things. He consistently delivers powerful performances through subtle emotions and reactions, even when the story doesn’t focus directly on his character. He handles incredibly difficult material with remarkable control, especially considering his age and relative lack of experience – it’s a true display of talent. Will’s ability to show the lasting impact of his experiences in the Upside Down is crucial to the show’s overall sense of horror and has been key to its success.

What’s truly captivating is watching Noah Schnapp mature as an actor alongside his character, Will. Throughout the series, he shifts from displaying obvious fear to a more subtle, nuanced, and powerful performance. Will is a deeply emotional character, but rarely expresses it verbally, and Schnapp expertly conveys those feelings without overacting. Even when the storyline doesn’t focus on Will, Schnapp manages to keep him emotionally engaged. This really pays off in the final season, particularly in moments where Will embraces his abilities or bravely enters Vecna’s mind to rescue Max and Holly. The performance feels authentic and delivers a powerfully chilling effect.

1) Jamie Campbell Bower (Vecna/Henry Creel)

Okay, as a huge Stranger Things fan, I have to say Jamie Campbell Bower absolutely killed it as Vecna. Honestly, I was worried he’d just be another spooky-looking villain, but he made the character genuinely compelling – and terrifying! It’s amazing how much control and purpose he brought to the role. He doesn’t even need to do a ton of talking; his movements are so deliberate, and he feels totally connected to the show’s backstory. What really got to me was how scary he was as Henry Creel – he could convey so much intensity with just a look, without saying a single word. It was seriously impressive!

Jamie Campbell Bower’s performance as Henry Creel/Vecna isn’t about dramatic changes, but incredibly subtle shifts. The coldness was always present, but he amplifies it in a way that feels natural, without resorting to over-the-top acting. This small change is remarkably effective, completely altering the character in moments. This nuance is even more pronounced in Season 5, particularly when Henry remembers opening the briefcase – he transitions from intense hatred to a surprising sadness, almost making the audience feel sympathy for him. Bower consistently captivates viewers, and many feel his work deserved award recognition.

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2026-01-09 22:19