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Linda Hamilton Debuts as Dr. Kay in Stranger Things Season 5

The Terminator star joins as a militarized scientist targeting Eleven in Volume 1 of the show's final season.

Overview

  • Netflix released the first four episodes on Nov. 26–27, confirming Hamilton’s role as Dr. Kay, with Volume 2 arriving Dec. 25 and the finale on Dec. 31.
  • Dr. Kay is described by creators and Netflix as a hyper‑intelligent, intimidating head scientist overseeing the military occupation in Hawkins who treats Eleven as a weapon to be acquired.
  • Hamilton appears in the season premiere, with early coverage noting her character’s ruthless methods and experimental tools as the hunt for Eleven intensifies.
  • In recent interviews, Hamilton rejected pressure to look younger, saying she embraces “the face I’ve earned,” and detailed a thrice‑weekly regimen of Pilates, yoga and weight training for the role.
  • She said she nearly retired due to a severe hip issue before accepting the part and added that she does not watch projects she appears in, including this season.