During the promotional activities for the latest season of “Stranger Things,” Gaten Matarazzo, who portrays Dustin Henderson in the popular Netflix series, shared his thoughts on the evolving dynamics between the characters Will Byers and Mike Wheeler. Fans of the show have been buzzing with speculation about a possible romantic connection between the two, often referring to the pairing as “Byler.”
In an interview with Elite Daily, Matarazzo addressed these fan theories, shedding light on the nature of the relationship. He noted that while he finds some of the theories entertaining, including the amusing “Stonathan” ship between Steve and Jonathan, he believes that Will and Mike share a strong friendship rather than a romantic bond. “I see them as just very good friends,” Matarazzo stated, emphasizing the journey that Will, portrayed by Noah Schnapp, is experiencing as a young queer individual in a small-town setting.
He elaborated on how Will’s story reflects a universal experience faced by many LGBTQ+ youth, acknowledging the complexities and challenges of recognizing feelings for a childhood friend without the ability to articulate them. “There’s something more powerful there than just, ‘I wonder if they’re going to kiss,’” he remarked, highlighting the depth of Will’s character development throughout the series.
Social media reactions to Matarazzo’s comments have been largely supportive, with fans expressing agreement and appreciation for his perspective. Comments such as “He’s real as fuck for this too” and “Well said. Will’s story feels real and relatable” showcased a consensus that reinforces the idea of their strong friendship rather than a romantic affiliation.
As “Stranger Things” continues to capture the hearts of its audience, the dialogue surrounding these character relationships contributes richly to the overall narrative, resonating with fans in diverse and meaningful ways.