The Duffer Brothers, Matt and Ross, are currently on set for the fifth and final season of “Stranger Things,” a groundbreaking series that transformed Netflix into a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. With filming for the last episodes underway in Atlanta as of July 2024, the twins are determined to craft a conclusion that resonates with fans. The series, which premiered in 2016, has garnered a massive following, with Season 4 becoming the first English-language series to surpass one billion hours viewed on the platform.
Duffer Brothers Reflect on “Stranger Things” Journey
Matt and Ross Duffer, now 41 years old, started their journey in the entertainment industry as relatively unknown filmmakers. Their creation, “Stranger Things,” has propelled the careers of its cast, including Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour, and has revitalized the careers of iconic actors from the 1980s. The series intertwines genre storytelling with a deeply developed ensemble cast, capturing the imaginations of viewers worldwide.
Final Season Details
- Launch Date: The first four episodes of Season 5 will debut over Thanksgiving.
- Finale Date: The series finale is scheduled for New Year’s Eve.
- Cost: Reports estimate a budget of $50 to $60 million per episode.
- Character Count: 21 series regulars will appear in Season 5.
As they approach the end, the Duffers are mindful of the stakes involved. Executive producer Shawn Levy expresses the importance of a satisfying conclusion, noting fans’ emotional investment in the characters and their journeys. The brothers aim to tie up all storylines without leaving any loose ends. “We want it to feel complete,” Ross stated.
Future Projects and Spinoffs
Aside from concluding “Stranger Things,” the Duffer Brothers are exploring new opportunities. Recently, they signed a lucrative four-year deal with Paramount for their production company, Upside Down Pictures. This deal indicates a significant shift in their careers, allowing them to focus on theatrical films, a change from their exclusive streaming focus with Netflix.
- Upcoming Projects:
- “The Boroughs” – A series about seniors in a retirement community facing supernatural challenges.
- “Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen” – A horror narrative set during a wedding week.
- “Stranger Things: Tales From ’85” – An animated spinoff set after Season 2.
- Spinoff Series: A new “Stranger Things” related series is in the works, intended to connect to the original while exploring fresh themes.
While the Duffers are stepping into a new phase of their careers, they acknowledge the challenges ahead. The completion of “Stranger Things” marks the end of a decade-long chapter where they forged deep connections with the cast and crew, cultivating a family-like environment. As they transition to Paramount and future projects, they remain committed to delivering quality storytelling.
With “Stranger Things,” the Duffer Brothers have not only created a cultural phenomenon but have also laid the groundwork for a versatile career in the entertainment industry. Their journey reflects a dedication to storytelling that resonates with audiences around the globe.
