Credit: NetflixThe entertainment world is mourning the loss of Mark Withers, a versatile actor who brought depth and nuance to television across multiple decades. Withers passed away on November 22, 2024, at the age of 77, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. His daughter, Jessie Withers, confirmed his passing, highlighting his resilience and dedication to his craft.
Withers’ career spanned more than 40 years, and while he earned acclaim for various roles, his portrayal of Coroner Gary in Netflix’s Stranger Things has become a standout moment for fans of the supernatural hit. His role in Season 1 contributed to the early episodes’ sense of realism and tension, making him an indelible part of the series’ foundation.
Stranger Things Updates shared a photo of Mark, stating, “Rest in peace Mark Withers, our Gary”.
Rest in peace Mark Withers, our Gary 🤍🕊 pic.twitter.com/6u5Nmo5xeI
— Stranger Things Updates (@Updates_SThings) December 7, 2024
A Career of Trailblazing Roles and Memorable Performances
Mark Withers’ journey in Hollywood began with standout performances in the 1980s. His portrayal of Ted Dinard in Dynasty was groundbreaking, bringing LGBTQ+ representation to primetime television at a time when such depictions were virtually nonexistent.
Dinard’s relationship with Steven Carrington was portrayed with sincerity and depth, a choice that Withers later credited to the boldness of the show’s creators. “It was 30, 40 years ahead of its time,” he reflected in a 2018 interview.
Beyond Dynasty, Withers’ work included appearances in iconic series like Dallas, Magnum, P.I., Matlock, and L.A. Law. His ability to move seamlessly between drama, comedy, and genre television made him a sought-after actor. Later in his career, he took on guest roles in Criminal Minds, Castle, Frasier, and the Wachowskis’ Sense8.
His daughter’s tribute summed up his legacy perfectly: “Mark’s enduring talent and commitment to the industry will be fondly remembered by colleagues, friends, and fans alike. He brought warmth, humor, and depth to every role.”
Stranger Things Season 5: What to Expect as the Show Comes to a Close
As fans honor Withers’ contributions to Stranger Things, excitement for the fifth and final season continues to grow. Scheduled for release in 2025, this chapter promises to be a climactic and emotional conclusion to the series that has captivated audiences since 2016.
Production Delays and Progress
The combined effects of the 2023 Writers’ Strike and SAG-AFTRA strike pushed back production timelines, but filming officially began in January 2024. By midyear, the cast and crew had completed half of the season, with a wrap expected by late December. Netflix has confirmed a 2025 release, with a likely premiere window in the summer months, staying consistent with the show’s previous launches.
Returning Cast and New Faces
Fans can expect all the core characters to return for the final episodes:
- Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven, whose psychic powers remain central to the fight against the Upside Down.
- Finn Wolfhard as Mike, stepping further into a leadership role.
- Noah Schnapp as Will Byers, whose storyline will be a focal point of the finale.
- Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin, beloved for his humor and ingenuity.
- Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas, reuniting with the group to confront new threats.
- Sadie Sink as Max, recovering after the harrowing events of Season 4.
- Winona Ryder as Joyce, the unwavering matriarch of the Byers family.
- David Harbour as Hopper, continuing his role as the group’s protective figure.
Additionally, Linda Hamilton, known for her iconic role in The Terminator, joins the cast. While her character remains a mystery, her involvement has heightened anticipation for the final season.
Plot Details: Back to Hawkins
The Duffer Brothers have confirmed that the story will return to Hawkins, the small-town setting that launched the series. By narrowing the focus geographically, the final season aims to capture the intimacy and group dynamics that defined early episodes while delivering on the heightened stakes introduced in later seasons.
Will Byers’ role is set to be pivotal. As Noah Schnapp has shared, “The story started with Will, and it’ll end with Will.” Fans speculate that his connection to the Upside Down will be the key to unraveling its mysteries and bringing the saga to a close.
Episode Titles and Theories
Netflix revealed the episode titles during Stranger Things Day in November 2024. These include:
- The Crawl
- Shock Jock
- Escape From Camazotz
- The Rightside Up
The titles have sparked widespread fan theories, particularly regarding The Vanishing of [Redacted] and its potential connection to major character arcs or shocking twists.
Tone and Runtime
While Season 5 episodes are expected to be shorter than those in Season 4, the finale will reportedly stretch to feature-film length, offering a two-and-a-half-hour conclusion. Maya Hawke described the final season as “eight movies,” emphasizing its cinematic scale and intensity.
A Darker Endgame?
There are rumors that the series may shift to a TV-MA rating for its final season, signaling a darker and more mature tone. Although unconfirmed, this would align with the show’s evolution and the gravity of its concluding chapters.
Hints and Speculation from the Cast
David Harbour praised the Duffer Brothers’ scripts as “terrific” and hinted at a time jump that will showcase a world deeply altered by the events of Season 4. Leaked set photos showing Hopper and Mike at a memorial have fueled speculation about significant character losses.
Meanwhile, Finn Wolfhard described Season 5 as a return to the emotional dynamics of Season 1, balanced with the epic scope of the series’ final battle.
Honoring Mark Withers’ Legacy
Mark Withers’ portrayal of Coroner Gary in Stranger Things Season 1 remains a testament to the importance of every character in building a rich and immersive story. His contribution, though brief, added a layer of authenticity that set the tone for the series’ unfolding mysteries.
As Stranger Things prepares to close its final chapter, Withers’ career stands as a reminder of the power of storytelling—both in the quiet moments and the groundbreaking ones. From his pioneering role in Dynasty to his work in Stranger Things, his legacy will endure in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
We at Inside the Magic wish Mark’s friends and family our condolences during this time.