Stranger Things Fans Weigh In: Do You Believe in the Finale’s Twist?

Is a show’s finale truly satisfying if it doesn’t ignite a whirlwind of theories and debates about what just unfolded? That’s certainly the buzz surrounding the conclusion of Stranger Things, which has left fans pondering whether Mike Wheeler (Finn Wolfhard) and his theory about Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) hold any weight. Since that moment where our beloved waffle enthusiast seemed to gaze at a waterfall, fans have taken to Reddit to dissect whether what we witnessed was reality or if Mike and the gang were simply clinging to a comforting narrative to cope with the loss of a friend.

Some fans have donned their analytical caps, considering the show’s success on Netflix and the likelihood of future spin-offs or reunions. “I believe Netflix will want to keep the door slightly ajar for a revival in a couple of years, so yes,” one fan speculated, suggesting that Eleven might be as ready to step away from the Upside Down as Steve Rogers is from the MCU.

A hot topic among fans is the choice of music in the show’s closing moments. Known for its stellar soundtrack throughout its decade-long journey, the series wraps up with David Bowie’s “Heroes.” Observant viewers quickly noted its significance, recalling how the song played during pivotal moments in past seasons when other characters faced dire fates. “‘Heroes’ played at the end, which also happened when Will and Hopper’s deaths were faked. So yes,” one fan commented, weighing in on whether El is truly alive.

Another fan analyzed the final farewell between El and her friends, suggesting that Mike’s theory might indeed be spot on. “She managed to get to the Upside Down seemingly with ease and without being seen. Those sonic radars mean they can hardly walk, so to crawl over there without anyone seeing her seemed odd. She got out without being seen because she was actually invisible. And I saw Mike’s graduation sonic flashback as more of a lightbulb moment in this context.”

Of course, many fans are echoing a sentiment that one wasn’t shy to express: “I have to believe otherwise I won’t stop crying.” It seems you’re not alone in that feeling.