No Plans for Stranger Things Sequel Says Creators Matt and Ross Duffer

The creators of Stranger Things, Matt and Ross Duffer, have made it clear they have no intention of revisiting the original characters for a sequel or spin-off in the near future. They dismiss any ideas of a follow-up series as nothing more than a “gross cash grab.”

The recent finale of Stranger Things, titled The Rightside Up, aired on Netflix on December 31, 2025, marking what the Duffer brothers describe as a definitive end for the core group of characters we've cherished over the past decade. Although several spin-offs, including an animated series featuring some of the familiar faces, are in development, the brothers are eager to focus on entirely new stories.

No Return to Hawkins in the Near Future

In a detailed interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the Duffer brothers addressed the possibility of returning to Hawkins in ten years, specifically revisiting the original cast. Their response was a firm scoff.

“We really don’t know,” Matt said. “The ending of Season 5 was meant to close the book on these characters once and for all.”

He emphasized that the final moments of the series were crafted to signify a definitive conclusion for characters like Mike, Eleven, Joyce, and Hopper.

“We’re closing the door on the story,” he explained. “That’s why we included the closing credits — as a way to say: ‘This is finite. This is the end of their story.’”

The Creators’ Outlook on Future Projects

While other Stranger Things projects are brewing — including various spin-offs and merchandise — the Duffer brothers have made it clear they don't plan to continue the original storyline.

“It’s a coming-of-age story,” Matt reflected. “When Mike closes the basement door, he’s closing the door on his childhood and moving into adulthood.”

Speculating about what a sequel could entail, Matt joked about seeing “Grandpa Hopper” or the cast going through a “midlife crisis.” However, he dismissed these ideas as unappealing and associated with “a gross cash grab.”

Focus on New Characters and Stories

Despite the firm stance on ending the original story, both Matt and Ross are enthusiastic about exploring fresh characters and mythology within the Stranger Things universe.

While fans might hope for a surprise return someday, the brothers maintain that their current focus is on creating new narratives rather than revisiting the past.

“We’re excited to explore new characters and new stories,” they affirmed.

So, for now, the Stranger Things era as we know it has officially concluded — but the franchise continues to evolve in new directions.