New Stranger Things Prequel Unveils Hopper's Surprising Link to Eddie Munson

Article Overview

In Stranger Things season 4, Hopper and Eddie never appeared together on screen. However, the prequel book uncovers that Hopper had an encounter with Eddie during a significant incident in 1984.

In contrast to the residents of Hawkins, Hopper treated Eddie with special consideration, understanding his innocence in a botched robbery.

Hopper's past interactions with Eddie have the potential to impact Stranger Things season 5 by altering the perception of Eddie from a villain to a hero. The new Stranger Things prequel reveals a connection between Chief Jim Hopper and Eddie Munson, although they never appeared together on screen in season 4. In season 4, Hopper was trapped in Kamchatka, Russia, but eventually managed to escape with the help of Joyce, Murray, and Yuri, returning to Hawkins by the end of the season. However, by that time, Eddie had already passed away after bravely sacrificing himself for the group in the Upside Down.

Hopper & Eddie Interacted During A Key Stranger Things Event In 1984

Eddie never had the chance to interact with Hopper in Stranger Things season 4 due to the timeline of events. However, there were implications that they knew each other, possibly because Hawkins was a small town and Eddie's father had connections to local law enforcement. Interestingly, it is revealed in the prequel book, Stranger Things: Flight of Icarus, that Hopper was actually present during a crucial moment in Eddie's life. This story takes place in the spring of 1984, before the events of Stranger Things season 2 when Hopper was still the chief of police.

Hopper Didn't Treat Eddie Like The Rest Of Hawkins

In the Flight of Icarus episode of Stranger Things, new revelations emerge about the fate of Eddie Munson's father. Apart from some passing references, it is Hopper who interacts with Eddie after he is imprisoned following a failed robbery. Al, Eddie's father, persuades him to rob drug kingpins, only to discover that Al himself is associated with them. This leads to Eddie being entangled in the situation, resulting in his house being set on fire and a police officer being shot. The other associates, including Al, flee the scene, leaving Eddie to face the consequences. Fortunately, Hopper recognizes that Eddie is not to blame for the chaos.

Hopper hints that he is aware of Al's responsibility for everything and grants Eddie a phone call while in jail. Ultimately, Eddie is released on bail, with Hopper keeping him informed about the progress of the case and Al's whereabouts. However, Hopper's primary focus is on shielding Eddie from any accusations. Eddie even acknowledges this, stating, "Chief Hopper has actually done a remarkable job at quashing those rumors," in response to the efforts made by Hopper to dissociate Eddie from the trouble caused by his father. Unlike the rest of the people in Hawkins, Hopper does not immediately disregard Eddie due to his connection to Al's infamous reputation.

How Hopper & Eddie's Past Can Affect Stranger Things Season 5

Eddie's Legacy Can Still Be A Factor In Stranger Things' Finale Season

After Eddie's courageous demise in season 4 of Stranger Things, it was imperative that the truth regarding his passing remained concealed, even from his uncle Wayne. Despite Dustin's efforts to emphasize Eddie's heroic sacrifice, such sentiments were not echoed within the community of Hawkins. Due to his association with Chrissy's death and circulating rumors of his involvement in satanic activities, Eddie was perceived as a villain by the town. Despite the glaring misconception, his friends could only do so much to alter this prevailing opinion. However, in season 5, it is Hopper who possesses the potential to reshape this perception.

Considering Hopper's history of recognizing Eddie's inherent goodness in the Stranger Things prequel and his newfound opportunity to uncover the truth behind the young man's connection to Vecna, Hopper possesses the ability to convince others that Eddie had always been a hero, not a villain. Upon his return to Hawkins, Hopper will undoubtedly resume his role as an authoritative figure, affording him the chance to rectify the misconception surrounding Eddie. While he may not be able to disclose the entirety of the truth, he can still defend Eddie in the same manner he did back in 1984.

Stranger Things: Flight of Icarus was published by Penguin Random House and released on October 31st, 2023.

Editor's P/S

In the new Stranger Things prequel, "Flight of Icarus," a surprising connection between Hopper and Eddie Munson is revealed. The book unveils that Hopper had an encounter with Eddie during a significant incident in 1984, showcasing a side of Hopper that we have not seen before. In contrast to the residents of Hawkins, Hopper treats Eddie with special consideration, understanding his innocence in a botched robbery. This revelation could have significant implications for Season 5, as Eddie's legacy may continue to play a pivotal role in the series' final season.

Hopper's past interactions with Eddie have the potential to impact Stranger Things season 5 by altering the perception of Eddie from a villain to a hero. Eddie's courageous sacrifice in season 4 was not fully recognized by the community of Hawkins, as rumors of his involvement in satanic activities and his association with Chrissy's death overshadowed his heroic actions. However, Hopper, who was not present in Hawkins during season 4, has the opportunity to shed light on Eddie's true character and motivations. By sharing his experiences with Eddie and vouching for his innocence, Hopper can help to reshape the narrative surrounding Eddie and ensure that his legacy is remembered in a more positive light.