Filming for Stranger Things: The First Shadow May Begin This Week on Netflix
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While Stranger Things season 5 prominently features the narrative, the play The First Shadow is currently only available on stage. However, that may change soon, as performances have reportedly been paused this week to capture a professionally filmed version, likely intended for streaming.
According to reports, performances of Stranger Things: The First Shadow have been canceled on Broadway through Saturday, February 14, to film a version of the play. Similar to the filmed adaptation of Hamilton that made its way to streaming platforms, this version of The First Shadow is expected to feature the original cast. No release date has been announced yet.
The First Shadow debuted in London in 2023 and opened in New York in April 2025. It explores young Henry Creel’s (aka Vecna) high school experiences alongside Joyce and Hopper, detailing how he encounters the Mind Flayer after being transported to The Abyss. These elements were referenced in Stranger Things season 5 but left largely unexplained, which is curious given the higher entry barrier of West End and Broadway productions. If you haven’t seen The First Shadow yet, the Netflix release should help clarify some plot points.
The three-part release of Stranger Things season 5 set records for the platform, although viewership saw significant drops after the initial week. Reactions to the finale were mixed at best. Our review noted that the “series finale combines serious storytelling with poorly executed action scenes, alongside some heartfelt moments and a satisfying conclusion.” The backlash was so intense that a conspiracy theory about a secret ninth episode, dubbed Conformity Gate, emerged in the weeks following its release.
When The First Shadow will arrive on streaming remains uncertain. In the meantime, we can look forward to Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, which the showrunner has indicated is meant to feel like a lost season of the main series.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is currently showing in London and New York, but a streaming release is still to be confirmed. Looking to expand your watchlist in the meantime?
