Netflix’s Stranger Things Officially Returns With New Episodes

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The popular series Stranger Things has returned with new episodes, now streaming on Netflix shortly after the previous season concluded. For almost ten years, Stranger Things was Netflix’s most important show, launching the careers of young actors like Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, and Sadie Sink, and bringing attention to many other talented performers.

Recognizing the popularity of Stranger Things as one of its biggest hits, Netflix decided to try something new with the final season. Season 5 was released in three parts, culminating in a single series finale episode on December 31, 2025. This release strategy was a departure from the norm, and Stranger Things—a show that set the standard for many Netflix Originals—was given the freedom to experiment.

The original Stranger Things series has concluded and won’t be returning anytime soon, leaving some questions unanswered, like the fate of Eleven. However, the story isn’t over completely. Netflix and the Duffer Brothers, the show’s creators, are planning spin-off series to expand the Stranger Things universe.

Okay, so the first spin-off from Stranger Things is finally here! It’s called Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, and all ten episodes dropped on Netflix today, April 23rd. What’s really cool is it’s animated, which immediately sets it apart from the live-action show we all know and love. It definitely feels connected to the original Stranger Things, but also does its own thing, which is great.

Netflix’s Stranger Things Franchise’s Return Is As Exciting As Expected

“Stranger Things: Tales from ’85” continues the story fans enjoy, taking place between seasons 2 and 3 of Stranger Things. The new animated series on Netflix features familiar characters, but the original actors like David Harbour and Joe Keery don’t lend their voices to this version.

The latest installment of Netflix’s Stranger Things, titled Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, features some new voices for familiar characters. Jeremy Jordan, known for his role in Supergirl, now voices Steve Harrington. The series also introduces brand new characters, like Nikki, voiced by Odessa A’zion from Marty Supreme, who teams up with the main characters to unravel a mystery.

The animated series Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, with ten episodes, delivers plenty of excitement by introducing new dangers and storylines not seen in the original show. It expands on familiar elements – like the creepy spores from the Upside Down, which were previously just used to create atmosphere – and adds a frightening new monster and a snow-covered Hawkins to keep things interesting.

Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 Being Animated Does Not Make It Any Less Special

Many fans worried that the new Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 wouldn’t be as good because it’s animated instead of live-action. However, making it live-action wasn’t really possible – the actors are now too old to play their characters as teenagers. While using the same actors for voice work is fine, completely recasting the roles for a live-action version would have likely been a mistake.

The animation in Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 is delightful and suggests a fun, heartfelt adventure. The original Stranger Things became incredibly popular thanks to its original story, memorable characters, thrilling moments, and 80s vibe. Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 delivers on all those same strengths, meaning the new series is poised to quickly become a hit around the world.

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2026-04-23 12:58