Stranger Things Season 5: The Epic Redemption Story of This Beloved Fan-Favorite Character

Highlights

After being sidelined for four seasons, Will Byers finally gets the spotlight he deserves in Stranger Things season 5.

The upcoming season will prioritize Will's emotional journey and coming-of-age as a young man. Despite being the series catalyst, Will has been overshadowed by other characters, but it is high time his story receives the deserving attention.

Stranger Things season 5 will finally prioritize a core character who has long been overlooked, giving him the recognition he deserves. While it's challenging to create a cohesive story with such a large ensemble cast, especially when it largely consists of children, the previous seasons have unintentionally sidelined certain characters. This has left one character, Will, feeling neglected both in terms of his role within the story and in his own development. Despite being the catalyst for the series, he has always taken a backseat to more attention-grabbing romantic plotlines. However, in Stranger Things season 5, fans will finally witness a storyline centered around Will that they have eagerly been waiting for.

In Variety's profile on Schnapp, the creators of Stranger Things shared some insights about what to expect from Will in the upcoming season. He will no longer silently observe his two best friends' intense romance. Well, that won't be his only role anymore.

Ross Duffer explained, "Will will really be in the spotlight again in season 5. This emotional journey for him is what we believe will ultimately bring the whole series together. Will has always been the youngest, the introverted one, the one who needed protection. So, his journey is not only about his sexuality but also about him embracing his identity as a young man."

It is surprising that this Stranger Things storyline is only happening now. Will, out of all the characters, is arguably the most interesting one with the highest emotional stakes. Despite languishing in the Upside Down during the first season and returning with significant trauma, Stranger Things season 2 missed the opportunity to explore his experiences and how he could relate to his friends. Instead, apart from a disturbing possession arc, Will's role was overshadowed by the introduction of Max (Sadie Sink) as the boys fought over her.

Stranger Things season 4 disappointed in its portrayal of the Will Byers storyline. In a typical narrative centered on a character exploring their sexuality, Will developed feelings for Mike, who, let's be honest, isn't worthy of someone as sensitive and sincere as Will. If the Duffers can be trusted and Will truly becomes a central focus of the season, they must fully commit to it. He shouldn't continue being the perpetual victim he has been. As the most emotionally mature character, Will deserves a storyline that showcases his growth and establishes him as the standout character in Stranger Things, after being sidelined for far too long.

All four seasons of Stranger Things are currently available for streaming on Netflix.

Source: Variety