Nell Fisher, who recently celebrated her 14th birthday, steps into the spotlight as Holly Wheeler in the eagerly anticipated final season of “Stranger Things.” This marks a significant shift for the character, previously portrayed by twins Anniston and Tinsley Price since the show’s debut in July 2016. While the Price twins were just three years old when they first appeared, Fisher was living in New Zealand, immersed in school and beginning her acting career, which included a notable role in “Evil Dead Rise.”
Fisher auditioned for the role of Holly in early 2023 and moved to Atlanta later that year to film. The new season introduces an 18-month time jump, with Holly playing a crucial role amid the unfolding supernatural chaos. As the plot progresses, Holly becomes entangled in Vecna’s sinister plans, marked by eerie encounters with the creature, who appears to her as the charming Henry Creel, often referred to by Holly as Mr. Whatsit, a nod to her favorite book, “A Wrinkle in Time.” In a dramatic turn of events, Holly is kidnapped by a Demogorgon while her mother, Karen, bravely tries to protect her.
Fisher’s experience on set was shaped by her unique background—born in London, she spent several formative years acting in New Zealand. During a recent interview, she shared insights into her journey to “Stranger Things,” noting that her mother, a former diplomat, played a pivotal role in her upbringing across two cultures. Her initial foray into acting came unexpectedly when Hollywood productions flocked to New Zealand during the pandemic, leading to her breakout role in “Evil Dead Rise.”
Excited about her audition, Fisher binge-watched “Stranger Things,” even though her mother had initially deemed it too frightening for her to watch. The audition itself took place in February 2023, and she learned she landed the role while filming “Bookworm” alongside Elijah Wood. The experience left her astonished, particularly since the Duffers had spotted her potential in her previous project.
Fisher noted how she and the showrunners worked to breathe life into Holly, comparing her character’s evolution to that of her siblings, Nancy and Mike. As Holly transitions from being the baby of the family to confronting the dangers of the Upside Down, she discovers her own identity—an integral theme to her character’s journey.
Despite the pressure associated with joining an established cast in the series’ fifth season, Fisher felt welcomed by her peers. She formed strong relationships with co-stars, particularly Sadie Sink, who plays Max, highlighting their camaraderie during filming.
One of the memorable sequences Fisher filmed involved an intense showdown with a Demogorgon, where she engaged in underwater stunts that required precise coordination with her on-screen mother, portrayed by Cara Buono. The pair developed a real bond through their shared experiences during these demanding scenes.
Fisher expressed excitement about the future yet remains grounded in her education. She balances her acting career with school life, embracing both aspects with enthusiasm. While she has no immediate plans for her next role, she feels a newfound sense of belonging in the acting world, eager to tell more stories and develop her craft further.
Capturing the warmth and adventure of her experiences, Fisher’s journey in “Stranger Things” symbolizes not just the stories of its characters but also the heartfelt connections forged behind the scenes. Her portrayal as Holly Wheeler promises to resonate with viewers, as fans eagerly await the conclusion of this beloved series.