Netflix’s Tudum recently shared audition footage featuring Jake Connelly, who portrays Derek Turnbow in the upcoming season 5 of “Stranger Things.” Connelly, introduced as the younger brother of Tina Turnbow—played by Caroline Elle Abrams—has earned a reputation among fans for his character’s tendency to bully classmates, often referred to as “Dipshit Derek.”
In a clip posted on X (formerly Twitter), Connelly opens with an introductory note, proudly announcing, “Hi, my name is Jake Connelly. I’m 4 feet and 11 inches tall.” In a further insight, Matt Duffer, one of the series’ creators, explains that Connelly impressed them during auditions to the point where they decided to enhance his character’s presence throughout the season. “We knew he would be a perfect Derek, but he was so charming and hilarious to us that we started to gradually increase the size of his role,” Duffer remarked.
The audition also showcases Connelly’s playful take on his character, as he humorously states, “I’m not ‘Dipshit Derek’ today, I’m ‘Delightful Derek.’” This lighthearted moment follows a sequence reminiscent of Winona Ryder’s character, Joyce, highlighting the show’s quirky tone.
In an interview with Netflix Tudum, Connelly reflected on his experience working on the set of “Stranger Things,” sharing a memorable moment from the script that left him in awe. He described a significant plot twist involving the character Holly that took him by surprise. Connelly expressed excitement about a particular scene where he gets to express himself with some edge, emphasizing, “I learned I got to flip off someone and yell something that I won’t spoil, but it’s pretty amazing.”
This role in “Stranger Things” marks Connelly’s major acting debut, as his prior experience was limited to a local Chicago furniture commercial. With this opportunity, he steps into the spotlight, showcasing his talent in a series celebrated for its unique characters and gripping narrative. As the new season approaches, fans eagerly anticipate how Connelly’s character will evolve and the impact he will have on the story.