Ending a hugely popular fantasy series can be a daunting task, and this is a sentiment shared by Finn Wolfhard, one of the stars of Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” In a recent feature with Time magazine, he reflected on the pressures faced by the team as they navigate the conclusion of the beloved series, particularly in light of the backlash that followed the final season of HBO’s “Game of Thrones.”
Wolfhard expressed that everyone involved in the production was apprehensive about the potential for a negative reaction similar to what “Game of Thrones” experienced. “We hope to not have that kind of thing happen,” he admitted, but found reassurance when the cast and crew read the scripts, knowing they were working on something special.
The Duffer Brothers, who co-created “Stranger Things,” shared similar concerns during the production of season four, which was one of the most expensive seasons of television recorded, costing approximately $30 million per episode. The massive investment paid off, as season four garnered a significant viewership, easing fears about the show’s trajectory leading into its final season, which is projected to reach $50 million to $60 million per episode.
Despite the series’ monumental success, co-creator Matt Duffer noted that Netflix has not pressed them for a direct sequel, allowing the creative team to consider various options for extending the franchise at their own pace. Netflix executive Bela Bajaria echoed this sentiment, expressing readiness for new ideas while respecting the team’s current focus on finishing “Stranger Things.”
Looking ahead, Netflix has planned a unique release strategy for the final season, dropping four episodes just before Thanksgiving, followed by three more on Christmas Day, and concluding with a feature-length finale on New Year’s Eve. This plan could position “Stranger Things” as a centerpiece for the holiday season, creating an exciting event for fans to look forward to.
With high expectations set for the final season and creative freedom retained, “Stranger Things” aims to conclude its journey on a high note, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of modern television.