In the past few years, Netflix has seen many popular original movies and television shows grace its platform. That said, no other television show on the platform has lasted longer than Stranger Things. Created by Matt and Ross Duffer, Stranger Things debuted its first episode in 2016 and has made Netflix over $1 billion in revenue since its release.
The hype surrounding the show was nothing to scoff at. During its height, multiple social media platforms, including Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X/Twitter, were dominated by the franchise fans, who kept it trending with edits and theory discussions.
That said, the franchise’s popularity has taken a hit since its fourth season was released, likely due to the many behind-the-scenes complications with the production’s visuals, which caused lengthy delays.
According to Ross Duffer, season four of Stranger Things had the same complications, noting that the production schedule was tight enough that they were adding visual effects the day before its release. These worsened for season five, which took nearly three years to release.
The delays have been a huge sticking point for fans online, with most noting that nine years is more than enough time to complete a series with five seasons. Fans were already frustrated when season four was hit with delays. If season five were delayed even further, Netflix would run the risk of the series ending on a sour note.
Thankfully, the Duffer brothers are eager to stick with a 2025 release window. Even though nothing is absolutely confirmed, their determination to end their lengthy project on a high note and with the spectacularly consistent visuals that the series has become known for is commendable.
If Netflix wants Stranger Things to end on a high note, it needs to do so while it still has its audience’s good graces, no matter how fleeting they may seem.
