Netflix Risks ‘Stranger Things’ Character Suspension, Lead Role Storyline in Jeopardy

As Stranger Things prepares for its fifth and final season, there’s growing speculation that Dustin’s journey might echo the compelling, grief-driven storyline Max experienced in season 4.

However, while such a narrative may be tempting for the show’s creators, it risks feeling repetitive and could undermine the uniqueness of both characters. With Stranger Things 5 positioned as the show’s concluding chapter, this approach may not be the best choice for either the story or Dustin’s character development.

Max’s Gripping Storyline in Stranger Things 4

Introduced in season 2, Max Mayfield quickly became a fan favorite. Her resilience and sharp wit brought a new dynamic to the Hawkins group. However, Max’s story took a darker turn in season 4 as she grappled with the death of her stepbrother, Billy. After his tragic sacrifice in season 3, Max’s guilt and unresolved feelings made her vulnerable to Vecna, the season’s terrifying antagonist.

One of Stranger Things 4’s most iconic moments was born from this subplot. Trapped in Vecna’s mindscape, Max’s love for her friends and Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” allowed her to escape, creating a cultural moment that reignited interest in the classic song. It was a powerful and emotionally resonant scene, but attempting to recreate its magic with Dustin in season 5 could backfire.

Dustin’s Season 5 Arc: Echoing Max’s Journey?

Dustin Henderson has been one of the series’ most beloved and comedic characters since its inception. However, his character was dealt a devastating blow in season 4 with the loss of Eddie Munson. As the leader of the Hellfire Club and a misunderstood outcast, Eddie became a mentor and close friend to Dustin before sacrificing himself heroically during the battle against Vecna.

Season 5 will undoubtedly explore Dustin’s grief, but it’s critical to ensure his story doesn’t feel like a rehash of Max’s. While both characters are dealing with the loss of a pivotal figure, their relationships with these individuals and the context of their grief are vastly different.

Why Dustin’s Grief Can’t Be Max’s Story

• Contrasting Personalities: Dustin has always been the group’s optimist, providing comic relief even in dire circumstances. In contrast, Max’s guarded and self-reliant nature made her isolation in season 4 believable.
• Distinct Losses: Eddie’s heroic and selfless death contrasts with Billy’s antagonistic and abusive behavior. Max’s guilt over Billy was deeply personal, while Dustin’s grief is shared among the group, making his isolation less plausible.
• Established Support Systems: Dustin has a strong network of friends who will rally around him. Max’s journey in season 4 was marked by emotional isolation, a vulnerability that Vecna exploited.

While Dustin’s actor, Gaten Matarazzo, has teased that his character will face “intense grief” in season 5, the show must tread carefully to avoid making his arc feel like a retread of Max’s emotional journey.

The Risk of Repetition in Stranger Things 5

Replicating Max’s season 4 storyline with Dustin would undermine both characters’ individual arcs. Dustin’s grief should manifest in a way that stays true to his personality. For instance:

1. Honoring Eddie’s Legacy: Rather than succumbing to guilt, Dustin could channel his loss into action—perhaps by leading the charge to clear Eddie’s name in Hawkins.
2. A New Kind of Vulnerability: Dustin could struggle with the idea of heroism, questioning whether he has what it takes to fill the void Eddie left behind.
3. A Unique Relationship with Vecna: If Vecna targets Dustin, it should be in a way that highlights his intelligence and resourcefulness, rather than rehashing Max’s mindscape confrontation.

Season 5 should aim to innovate, delivering fresh emotional beats rather than relying on tried-and-true formulas.

Everything We Know About Stranger Things 5

As anticipation builds for Stranger Things 5, here’s what we know about the final season:

Where We Left Off

Season 4 concluded with Hawkins in chaos. The Upside Down has begun to merge with the real world, setting the stage for an epic battle. Key moments from season 4 include:

• Max surviving Vecna’s attack but falling into a coma.
• Eddie sacrificing himself during the fight against Vecna.
• Eleven reclaiming her powers and reuniting with her friends.

The stakes have never been higher, and the group must now confront Vecna and the full force of the Upside Down.

Season 5 Plot Details

The Duffer Brothers have hinted that season 5 will delve deeper into the lore of the Upside Down. Fans can expect to learn more about Vecna’s origins, the government’s involvement in creating Eleven, and the full extent of the Upside Down’s connection to Hawkins.

Season 5 will also be a direct continuation of season 4, with the characters immediately grappling with the aftermath of the Upside Down’s invasion.

Confirmed Cast

The core cast will return for season 5, including:

• Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven
• Finn Wolfhard as Mike
• Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin
• Sadie Sink as Max
• David Harbour as Hopper
• Winona Ryder as Joyce

Additionally, Stranger Things 5 will introduce Linda Hamilton in a mysterious new role, adding even more intrigue to the final season.

Release Date

While filming is underway, the WGA strike delayed production, meaning season 5’s release is still TBD. Given the scope of the series, fans might need to wait until late 2025 or early 2026 for the final chapter.

Episode Count

Season 5 will consist of eight episodes, each described as “movie-length.” This format will allow for in-depth storytelling and a fitting conclusion to the series.

Is Season 5 the End of Stranger Things?

Yes, season 5 will mark the end of the main series. However, the Duffer Brothers have teased potential spin-offs set in the Stranger Things universe. These projects will explore new characters and stories, ensuring the world of Hawkins lives on.

While Dustin’s grief will undoubtedly play a significant role in Stranger Things 5, it’s crucial that the series finds a fresh and unique way to explore his emotional journey. As the final season approaches, fans can look forward to an epic conclusion that ties together the show’s many threads while offering new surprises along the way.