The Unexpected Duos Stranger Things Must Unveil in Season 5

Summary

The previous season witnessed a dismantling of age-centric storylines, paving the way for the formation of new connections and bonds between characters.

The show should explore unique relationships, such as Robin and Dustin or Jonathan and Steve, to further develop and elevate these characters. Stranger Things has thrived on dynamic duos, like Steve and Dustin or Max and Eleven, but there are still many more yet to be explored in season 5. With all the characters reuniting as the Upside Down wreaks havoc on Hawkins, the show has the chance to delve into new dynamics. While some characters typically remain connected, like Mike and Eleven or Hopper and Joyce, it's the unexpected pairings that leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Stranger Things: Evolving Age Dynamics in Season 4 Sparks New Relationships

10 Robin and Dustin

Despite their presence in Hawkins for season 4 of Stranger Things, Robin and Dustin had minimal interactions. Out of all the teenage characters, Dustin formed a closer bond with Eddie and maintained his friendship with Steve. However, Robin and Dustin potentially had numerous topics to discuss, including the impact Steve had on their lives and their shared love for eclectic movies (Robin has evidently seen The NeverEnding Story). While both characters occasionally contribute to the storyline, they usually assume supporting, comedic roles. Establishing a bond between them could potentially elevate their characters.

9 Joyce and Steve

Joyce has often found herself on her own isolated island during her storylines, primarily interacting with her sons, Hopper, and later Murray. However, now that she's reunited with everyone in Hawkins, new dynamics could arise. Take, for instance, her potential relationship with Steve. Both Joyce and Steve are ordinary individuals who have been thrust into the extraordinary circumstances of the Upside Down. They have both played roles as caretakers and protectors, which could lead to them discovering a surprising connection with one another. While many acknowledge Steve as a hero, it is important for the writers of Stranger Things season 5 to emphasize Joyce as the show's most underrated hero, drawing a clear distinction between their respective roles.

8 Lucas and Eleven

Lucas and Eleven, the original crew members from season 1, have been the audience's beloved characters for the longest time. However, it seems that these two have had the least amount of meaningful interactions, lacking a genuine friendship between them. Season 5 provides an opportunity for them to come together, particularly through their shared concern for Max, who holds importance in both their lives. Witnessing Eleven and Lucas supporting each other would be heartwarming, as they acknowledge the need for support during Max's recovery from a near-death experience. Moreover, Eleven can empathize with Lucas's struggle to fit in, having experienced similar difficulties herself in California.

7 Jonathan and Steve

6 Robin and Max

In the first season, the show depicted Jonathan and Steve as competing for Nancy's love. Now, three seasons later, although Nancy and Jonathan have gone their separate ways and Steve appears to have rekindled his feelings for Nancy, it seems like their relationship has not evolved beyond that initial rivalry. For season 5 of Stranger Things, it would be a welcome change to see Nancy's problematic love triangle left behind and witness Jonathan and Steve demonstrate growth and maturity. The Duffer Brothers could showcase their storytelling skills by developing a refreshing and nuanced friendship between Jonathan and Steve.

It's a bit surprising that Robin and Max haven't had many conversations together, possibly due to the show's tendency to divide the cast by age and Robin's recent introduction in season 3. However, these two could form an entertaining duo. They share a love for music (with Robin being in the marching band) and both have experience being girls whose closest friends are boys. Furthermore, Robin has always been portrayed as someone who enjoys making sarcastic comments and jokes. Considering the potential mistake of Max's death in Stranger Things season 5, laughter is likely the best remedy for her after the challenging events of season 4.

5 Jonathan and Eleven

Despite Joyce taking her in after Hopper was presumed dead, Jonathan and Eleven had limited one-on-one time throughout season 4 and prior to that. One defining aspect of Jonathan's character has always been his exceptional role as a big brother to Will. Witnessing him assume a similar position with Eleven could prove captivating, especially considering the emerging sibling-like connection between Will and Eleven. Although season 4 didn't delve into this much, it's worth noting that Jonathan possesses a passion for photography, and it's conceivable that Eleven would develop an interest in cameras, just as she displayed fascination for other new experiences, such as Eggos.

4 Hopper and Steve

The Duffer Brothers frequently place Hopper and Steve in comparable scenarios - high-energy action sequences reminiscent of 80s action films, which is a recurring motif in the show. The dynamic between these two is akin to a crossover between superheroes, where the idea of them fighting together is undeniably cool. Both Hopper and Steve are known for their protective instincts towards loved ones, but Steve has expressed his frustration at having to constantly be the one to stay behind and keep watch. In the presence of Hopper, Steve may finally find relief in sharing this responsibility with a more experienced adult who is well-versed in the ways of the world.

3 Nancy and Mike

2 Max and Will

Nancy and Mike's familiar dynamic of arguing at the breakfast or dinner table in the Wheeler house has been witnessed by audiences before. However, with the dire circumstances and the time jump in Stranger Things season 5, there is great potential for a transformation in their sibling relationship. Both Nancy and Mike can recognize the maturity in each other and understand the need to collaborate in order to assist their friends who are caught up in the events unfolding in the Upside Down. It would be delightful to observe Nancy and Mike join forces instead of engaging in constant bickering, especially considering their intelligence and abilities as individuals.

Following the events of both seasons 2 and 4, the Upside Down has left a lasting impact on both Will and Max. Their shared experiences could potentially bring them together as a formidable duo. Speculation among fans even suggests that Will might play a crucial role in saving Max during the upcoming season 5 of Stranger Things. Additionally, having someone like Max in his life, who fully understands the horrors of the Upside Down, could greatly benefit Will. From his early season 1 entrapment to his possession by the Mind Flayer in season 2, Max serves as a living testament that there is indeed hope for healing and moving forward beyond the traumas inflicted by the Upside Down.

1 Nancy and Eleven

Nancy, a core cast member in season 1, has never truly connected with Eleven. However, their relationship could serve as an interesting parallel to the dynamic between Steve and Dustin. Just like how an older teenage character takes a younger character under their wing, Nancy could become a level-headed older sister figure for Eleven, serving as a role model she has never had before. It would also be refreshing to witness Nancy interacting with characters other than her romantic interest. Particularly because Nancy has consistently showcased her remarkable ability to navigate the dangers of the Upside Down since Stranger Things season 1.