The Mind-Blowing Ending Theory Strengthened by Stranger Things Season 5 Delays

Production delays for Stranger Things season 5 have strengthened a theory about how the show will end. With a total of eight episodes, season 5 will be the last in the Duffer Brothers' Netflix series. Despite plans to begin production in May 2023, this did not happen, raising doubts about a potential release in 2024.

Originally, the Duffers had intended to film seasons 4 and 5 consecutively, but this did not materialize. A production plan was in place for season 5, but it was indefinitely delayed due to the WGA strike. Even without the writer's strike, the SAG-AFTRA strike would have also suspended production of the new season. The duration of these strikes remains uncertain, as both unions are committed to advocating for improved working conditions and rights. Consequently, the ongoing delays strongly suggest that a specific theory concerning the final season of Stranger Things will prove to be accurate.

Stranger Things Delays Make Season 5's Time Jump Theory More Likely

As time has passed, the age differences between the actors and their characters in Stranger Things have become a noticeable problem, especially with the younger cast. While characters like Eleven, Mike, Will, Lucas, Dustin, and Max should be around 14 or 15 by the end of season 4, their actors are already in their late teens or early twenties. Co-creator Ross Duffer has hinted at a time jump in season 5, and considering the delays, it seems increasingly likely that the final season will heavily rely on this.

With the ongoing writer and actor strikes showing no signs of ending soon, Stranger Things season 5 may have no other option but to incorporate a time skip in the last part. If the age disparities were already distracting, it's hard to believe that the appearances of the younger characters could successfully trick viewers into thinking season 5 takes place shortly after season 4. In fact, utilizing a significant theorized time jump in Stranger Things season 5 could be advantageous for the conclusion of the show. Not only would it allow the actors to portray their characters with more maturity, but it could also bring about a much-needed change in the narrative to emphasize the fact that time is running out.

How Stranger Things Season 4 Already Set Up A Time Jump

The delays in Stranger Things season 4 have necessitated a time jump, as the story already established the need for it. The emergence of the Upside Down in Hawkins has raised the stakes, indicating a final showdown with Vecna. However, depicting the impact of Vecna's influence on the group over time, without immediately addressing the season 4 cliffhanger, would demonstrate their vulnerability. Skipping ahead to the 1990s, several years later, would imply that no solution to defeat Vecna has been found, adding more pressure to the Hawkins group.

Another important development from the season 4 finale is the uncertain fate of Max. Targeted by Vecna, she was left in a coma and even if she survives, she will likely be forever changed. Alongside physical injuries, such as blindness, she will undoubtedly experience PTSD from her traumatic ordeal. A time jump in Stranger Things season 5 could eliminate the need to sideline Max, allowing her to be actively involved in the final battle against Vecna. However, this may not be feasible without a significant time jump.