‘Stranger Things’ Returns in Animated Form in 2026
Netflix has confirmed the release of a new animated spinoff series titled Stranger Things: Tales From '85, set to premiere in 2026. The story takes place between Seasons 2 and 3 of the original show, revisiting the town of Hawkins, Indiana.
Story and Setting
The series sheds light on the events following Will’s confrontation with the shadow monster, El sealing the gate, and the emotional farewell to Bob, just before the arrival of the Starcourt Mall. It aims to fill the narrative gap between those key seasons.
Voice Cast
- Brooklyn Davey Norstedt as Eleven
- Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Max
- Luca Diaz as Mike
- Ej (Elisha) Williams as Lucas
- Braxton Quinney as Dustin
- Ben Plessala as Will
- Brett Gipson as Hopper
Additional cast members include Odessa A’zion, Janeane Garofalo, and Lou Diamond Phillips.
Production Team
The show is created and executive produced by Eric Robles. Matt and Ross Duffer will serve as executive producers alongside Hilary Leavitt, Shawn Levy and his studio 21 Laps, and Dan Cohen.
“If you were worried that after Stranger Things 5 we’d have to say goodbye to Hawkins forever, don’t be!” — Netflix announcement
The new animated entry ensures that fans of Hawkins will continue to enjoy new stories from the beloved universe even after the conclusion of the main series.
Author’s Summary
Netflix expands the Stranger Things universe with an animated prequel, enriching the lore between Seasons 2 and 3 with familiar characters and a strong creative team.