Credit: Netflix
If you were offered one of the lead roles of Stranger Things, would you take the job under any and all conditions?
Most of the cast did, except for one cast member who had very rigid stipulations.
The release of Stranger Things in 2016 marked a pivotal moment in television. The series, a nostalgic homage to 1980s pop culture, quickly captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, becoming a cultural phenomenon.
Matt and Ross Duffer, the twin creators of Stranger Things, drew inspiration from a diverse range of sources for the series. Their childhood experiences in the 1980s, combined with a love for Stephen King, Steven Spielberg, and John Carpenter films, formed the foundation for the show’s distinctive aesthetic and tone.
Initially pitched as a feature film, the Duffer brothers embraced the opportunity to expand their story when studios expressed interest in a television series format. The show’s concept emerged from a blend of nostalgia, supernatural elements, and a coming-of-age narrative, creating a compelling and original premise.
One of the key factors contributing to Stranger Things’ success is its exceptional ensemble cast. The show’s ability to develop complex and relatable characters, each with their own unique voice and storyline, has created a rich and immersive world.
The core group introduced in Season 1, including Winona Ryder as Joyce Byers, David Harbour as Jim Hopper, and young talents like Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, and Noah Schnapp, laid the foundation for the series. Subsequent seasons expanded the cast with additions like Sadie Sink, Maya Hawke, and Joseph Quinn, further enriching the narrative and appealing to a broader audience.
This ensemble cast structure has allowed for a wide range of storylines and character arcs, keeping the audience engaged and invested in the show’s world. The complex relationships between the characters, both friendships and rivalries, create a rich tapestry of emotions and drama.
Stranger Things has been a critical and commercial success, garnering numerous awards and nominations. The series has received praise for its writing, acting, direction, and visual effects. Additionally, the show has broken viewership records on Netflix, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.
Winona Ryder’s performance as Joyce Byers has been a standout in the series. Her portrayal of a desperate mother searching for her missing son has resonated with audiences, and she has become one of the show’s most iconic characters.
Ryder’s career began to ascend in the 1980s with roles in films like Lucas (1986) and Beetlejuice (1988). Her portrayal of Lydia Deetz in Beetlejuice became iconic, earning her a Golden Globe nomination. However, legal troubles in the early 2000s led to a hiatus in her career.
Stranger Things marked a triumphant return for Ryder, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress. Her performance as Joyce Byers has garnered critical acclaim and earned her numerous award nominations. The success of Stranger Things has undoubtedly contributed to Ryder’s career resurgence, solidifying her status as a respected and beloved actress.
It is tough to imagine another actress playing Joyce in the series, and luckily, we do not have to, thanks to the Duffer brothers agreeing with one ultimatum that the actress placed.
Winona Ryder’s career trajectory took a fascinating turn when she joined the cast of Stranger Things. Her role as Joyce Byers, the determined mother searching for her missing son, became synonymous with the series and helped revitalize Ryder’s career. However, her involvement in the show was contingent on a specific condition related to another iconic role from her past.
Ryder’s breakthrough came in the late 1980s with roles in films like Heathers (1988) and the already mentioned Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice (1988), where her portrayal of Lydia Deetz earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Throughout the following decades, she continued to appear in notable films such as Edward Scissorhands, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Alien Resurrection, and Black Swan.
Before committing to Stranger Things, Ryder had a clear stipulation: the opportunity to participate in a potential Beetlejuice sequel. Discussions about a sequel had been ongoing between Ryder and director Tim Burton for approximately 15 years prior to her involvement in Stranger Things. The Duffer Brothers agreed to her condition, ensuring that Ryder could fulfill her long-held desire to reprise her iconic role as Lydia Deetz.
Interestingly, Stranger Things even included a subtle nod to Beetlejuice in its third season, further intertwining Ryder’s two most prominent roles. This unexpected connection delighted fans and showcased the show’s attention to detail.
The timing of the Beetlejuice sequel and the fifth and final season of Stranger Things has created an intriguing overlap in Ryder’s career. While Stranger Things season five’s release is anticipated for 2025, the Beetlejuice sequel is slated for a September 2023 release. This close proximity highlights the remarkable convergence of two iconic projects in Ryder’s career.
Most recently, Jenna Ortega shared her true feelings for co-star Ryder.
The unexpected pairing of Jenna Ortega and Winona Ryder in the highly anticipated Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has garnered significant attention, not only for its nostalgic appeal but also for the unique bond that has formed between the two actresses.
Ortega, whose star ascended rapidly with the hit Netflix series Wednesday, has openly credited Ryder for providing invaluable support during her own rise to fame. The younger actress described the experience of sudden stardom as “very isolating and scary,” a sentiment echoed by many young actors who find themselves thrust into the public eye.
“It’s a very isolating experience and a scary one,” said Ortega, who spoke to the magazine for a profile on her co-star.
Ryder, who experienced a similar trajectory in the late 1980s, offered a sympathetic ear and shared her own experiences navigating the complexities of early fame. Ortega has expressed deep gratitude for Ryder’s mentorship, acknowledging the significant comfort it provided during a challenging period.
“Being able to speak to somebody who had witnessed that firsthand, maybe even more, was a great source of comfort for me, and I can’t thank her enough for that,” Ortega told Harper’s Bazaar.
Ryder saw a number of breakthrough roles arrive in her late teens and early 20s as the Lydia Deetz actor was just 16 when Beetlejuice hit theaters in 1988.
Ortega, who plays Lydia Deetz’ daughter, Astrid, in the sequel film, described her character’s relationship with her fictional mother as “very important”.
“And it’s also really strange because it’s a lot of catching up and putting the pieces together of what’s gone on in Lydia’s life since, which is nice, I think, for anybody who loves the character and is excited to see her again,” Ortega revealed.
Ryder is “just the loveliest” and “sweetest,” Ortega told E! News back in February, adding that she’s one of her favorite people she’s ever met.
“I love her a lot and I felt really grateful to get to know her and work with her—she is just an angel on this planet,” Ortega said.
The mutual admiration between the two actresses is evident, creating a sense of camaraderie and excitement for the upcoming film. Beetlejuice 2, which also sees Michael Keaton and Catherine O’Hara reprising their roles from the original film, is set to hit theaters in September.
Stranger Things, on the other hand, will still be filming when Beetlejuice Beetlejuice comes out. At the moment, there is no release date for the final season of Stranger Things.
Ryder’s journey from the enigmatic Lydia Deetz to the fiercely protective Joyce Byers showcases her versatility as an actress. Both roles have left an enduring impact on popular culture, and her involvement in their respective sequels is a testament to her enduring appeal and the enduring power of these iconic characters.
Do you plan to watch season 5 of Stranger Things or Beetlejuice Beetlejuice?