‘Stranger Things’ Creators: Child Stars Unaffected by Fame, Thanks to Friendships

This year marks a significant milestone for the creators of “Stranger Things,” Matt and Ross Duffer, as the beloved series approaches its final chapter. Launched in July 2016 on Netflix, the show has captivated audiences for years. During a recent appearance at the Entertainment & Tech Summit in Los Angeles, the Duffer brothers reflected on the growth of the child actors who initially starred in the series.
Child Stars Maintained Grounded Personalities
The Duffer brothers expressed their contentment that none of the young stars have been negatively impacted by fame. Matt Duffer humorously noted, “It’s wild. It’s a reminder of how long this has been.” He emphasized how fortunate they feel about the close-knit relationships forged among the cast.
Ross Duffer pointed to the strong support systems the young actors had at home. “They had good families, and supportive parents,” he remarked. He also highlighted the importance of friendship among the cast. Being part of a group kept them grounded, as they remained connected even during breaks in filming.
The Impact of “Stranger Things”
“Stranger Things” immerses viewers in a tale steeped in 1980s nostalgia, showcasing a group of kids who uncover a dark alternate dimension known as the Upside Down. The character Eleven, portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown, serves as a key figure in this thrilling narrative. The main cast includes:
- Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven
- Noah Schnapp as Will Byers
- Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair
- Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson
- Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler
- Joe Keery as Steve Harrington
- Natalia Dyer as Nancy Wheeler
- Charlie Heaton as Jonathan Byers
Notably, Noah Schnapp was only 11 years old when the series premiered. Winona Ryder, who portrays Will’s mother in the show, expressed her admiration for the young actors. She remarked, “I got to watch these kids grow up, which was the biggest gift this show has given me.”
Achievements and Future Episodes
Since its debut, “Stranger Things” has won an impressive 12 Primetime Emmys. The latest fourth season of the show premiered in 2022, introducing audiences to the menacing character, Vecna, played by Jamie Campbell Bower. The anticipated fifth season will see the protagonists confront Vecna for one final showdown.
This concluding season is set to be released in three segments, aligning with major holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Fans eagerly await the wrap-up of this iconic series, which has left an indelible mark on the landscape of television.