Overview
- Netflix released the first four episodes on November 26, with three more arriving December 25 and a feature-length finale on December 31, each debuting at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET.
- The concluding season sets the endgame with Hawkins under military lockdown and Vecna’s threat intensifying after the prior rifts.
- The Duffer Brothers underscore Will Byers’ heightened importance this season without revealing story specifics and confirm no major character deaths occur in Volume 1.
- Early critical response is broadly positive, praising blockbuster-scale action, visual effects and an emotional setup; new cast includes Linda Hamilton as Dr. Kay.
- Some outlets report limited North American theatrical screenings tied to the finale, a development not formally announced by Netflix.