The Breaking Story Behind Noah Schnapp's Courageous Coming Out Journey in Stranger Things
How Will Byers' portrayal as a gay character in Stranger Things Season 5 had a profound impact on Noah Schnapp's personal journey of self-discovery
Summary
Will Byers being gay in Stranger Things helped Noah Schnapp with his own coming out, as he credits the character for helping him accept himself.
Stranger Things season 5 may tackle Will's inner conflict towards Mike as he plays a crucial part in defeating Vecna. The inclusion of a strong LGBTQ+ character like Will in the show has been impactful for both the viewers and Schnapp.
Stranger Things actor Noah Schnapp has discussed how his character, Will Byers, being gay in the series, has positively impacted his own experience of coming out. In Stranger Things season 4, it is revealed that Will develops feelings for Mike Wheeler, despite Mike being in a relationship with Eleven. Although Will feels heartbroken and unable to express his emotions, his brother Jonathan accepts him for who he truly is, resulting in a poignant moment between the siblings.
During an interview with Variety, Schnapp expressed how portraying a gay character in Stranger Things has provided him with the courage to embrace his own sexual identity. He confessed that if he had not been portraying Will, he may not have had the same bravery to openly disclose his true self to the world. Read Schnapp's candid thoughts below:
Will's Role In Stranger Things Season 5 Explained
Embracing the fact that Will was gay paved the way for me to accept and embrace my own identity. Having Will as a character to embody and relate to greatly aided in my journey towards self-acceptance. Without him, I might have remained hidden and closeted.
Will's emotional struggle with his feelings for Mike is compounded by his deep connection to Vecna, stemming from his traumatic experiences in the Upside Down during childhood. As Stranger Things season 4 came to an end, Will's instincts alerted him to Vecna's impending arrival in Hawkins. This foreshadows Will's crucial role in the ultimate confrontation with Vecna, highlighting the significance of his presence in defeating the formidable enemy during Stranger Things season 5.
However, Will's ongoing struggle with his feelings for Mike suggests that this may be explored further in the upcoming Stranger Things season 5. Due to Mike's current relationship with Eleven, it is unlikely that he will return Will's feelings. Nevertheless, their long-standing friendship implies that if Will were to come out as gay, Mike would likely accept him for who he truly is.
Schnapp's own experience of feeling more comfortable with his sexuality after portraying Will highlights the significance of the diverse characters in Stranger Things, even for the cast members themselves. With a multitude of characters in the series, it is a relief to see positive LGBTQ+ representation through Will, as well as Robin. As Stranger Things season 5 is expected to conclude the series, Will will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the final confrontation with Vecna.
Source: Variety
