The Journey Continues in Hawkins
Even though the flagship series of Stranger Things wrapped up its epic run with Season 5 back in December 2025, it’s clear that Netflix isn’t ready to leave Hawkins just yet. After a polarizing series finale titled “The Rightside Up,” which left some fans demanding a different ending through online petitions, the franchise has quickly shifted its focus to a new medium. Last week saw the premiere of the first official spinoff, Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, and the numbers are already telling a successful story.
According to recent reports from The Hollywood Reporter, the animated series has already been renewed for a second season. This news comes just days after the show debuted on April 23, 2026, where it managed to snag the number seven spot on the global top 10 list. For fans who were worried the franchise might go dormant after the main series ended, this quick renewal is a clear signal that the world of the Upside Down is expanding faster than ever.
Mixed Reviews and Canon Controversy
While the viewership numbers are strong, the reception for Tales From ’85 hasn’t been entirely magical. The show currently sits with mixed scores on review platforms, reflecting a divide among the fanbase. One of the biggest points of discussion among viewers is the show’s place in the timeline. Since the events take place between Season 2 and Season 3, many fans have pointed out that the characters never mentioned these specific monsters or adventures in the later years of the live-action series.
Despite these canon concerns, the animated format has allowed the franchise to reach a broader, younger audience. The show features a fresh voice cast, including Brooklyn Davey Norstedt as Eleven and Luca Diaz as Mike Wheeler, bringing a new energy to these iconic roles. The marketing machine behind the show is also in full swing, with merchandise appearing everywhere from toy stores to fast-food Happy Meals.
What’s Next for Stranger Things Fans?
The renewal of the animated series is just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re looking for more ways to stay connected to this world, there’s plenty on the horizon. A filmed version of the Broadway stage production, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, is expected to hit Netflix soon. Additionally, development is reportedly underway for an untitled live-action spinoff that will dive into the mystery of the “briefcase rock” that was first introduced during the emotional Season 5 finale.
While we wait for the second season of the animated series to arrive this fall, there’s plenty of time to revisit the first ten episodes and see how these new monsters fit into the larger lore of Hawkins. It’s a great way to keep the spirit of the show alive while the creators explore these new storytelling avenues.
Planning Your Watch Party
- Season 2 Arrival: Keep an eye on your Netflix queue this fall for the next chapter of Tales From ’85.
- Catch Up Now: The first season consists of 10 episodes and is currently streaming globally.
- Merchandise: If you’re a collector, look for the latest action figures that launched alongside the series premiere.
The ending of the main series might have been controversial for some, but the success of these spinoffs proves that the appetite for supernatural mysteries in the 1980s is still incredibly strong. Whether it’s through animation, stage plays, or new live-action stories, the legacy of Hawkins is far from finished.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.