Stranger Things poster

When a young boy vanishes, a small town uncovers a mystery involving secret experiments, terrifying supernatural forces, and one strange little girl.

5 Seasons
42 Episodes
Returning Series
Drama Sci-Fi & Fantasy Mystery
Cast & Characters
Chapter Seven: The Massacre at Hawkins Lab
9.6/10 (43983 votes)

#1 Chapter Seven: The Massacre at Hawkins Lab

S4:E7
May 27, 2022

As Hopper braces to battle a monster, Dustin dissects Vecna's motives — and decodes a message from beyond. El finds strength in a distant memory.

Chapter Four: Dear Billy
9.4/10 (40096 votes)

#2 Chapter Four: Dear Billy

S4:E4
May 27, 2022

Max is in grave danger... and running out of time. A patient at Pennhurst asylum has visitors. Elsewhere, in Russia, Hopper is hard at work.

Chapter Eight: The Upside Down
9.3/10 (29004 votes)

#3 Chapter Eight: The Upside Down

S1:E8
Jul 15, 2016

Dr. Brenner holds Hopper and Joyce for questioning while the boys wait with Eleven in the gym. Back at Will's, Nancy and Jonathan prepare for battle.

Chapter Nine: The Gate
9.3/10 (27406 votes)

#4 Chapter Nine: The Gate

S2:E9
Oct 27, 2017

Eleven makes plans to finish what she started while the survivors turn up the heat on the monstrous force that's holding Will hostage.

Chapter Eight: The Mind Flayer
9.2/10 (24651 votes)

#5 Chapter Eight: The Mind Flayer

S2:E8
Oct 27, 2017

An unlikely hero steps forward when a deadly development puts the Hawkins Lab on lockdown, trapping Will and several others inside.

Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt
9.2/10 (32649 votes)

#6 Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt

S3:E8
Jul 4, 2019

Terror reigns in the food court when the Mind Flayer comes to collect. But down below, in the dark, the future of the world is at stake.

Chapter Six: The Spy
9.1/10 (22798 votes)

#7 Chapter Six: The Spy

S2:E6
Oct 27, 2017

Will's connection to a shadowy evil grows stronger, but no one's quite sure how to stop it. Elsewhere, Dustin and Steve forge an unlikely bond.

Chapter Nine: The Piggyback
9.1/10 (34896 votes)

#8 Chapter Nine: The Piggyback

S4:E9
Jul 1, 2022

With selfless hearts and a clash of metal, heroes fight from every corner of the battlefield to save Hawkins — and the world itself.

Chapter Seven: The Bathtub
9.0/10 (24753 votes)

#9 Chapter Seven: The Bathtub

S1:E7
Jul 15, 2016

Eleven struggles to reach Will, while Lucas warns that "the bad men are coming." Nancy and Jonathan show the police what Jonathan caught on camera.

Chapter Four: The Body
8.9/10 (25141 votes)

#10 Chapter Four: The Body

S1:E4
Jul 15, 2016

Refusing to believe Will is dead, Joyce tries to connect with her son. The boys give Eleven a makeover. Nancy and Jonathan form an unlikely alliance.

Chapter Four: The Sauna Test
8.9/10 (23029 votes)

#11 Chapter Four: The Sauna Test

S3:E4
Jul 4, 2019

A code red brings the gang back together to face a frighteningly familiar evil. Karen urges Nancy to keep digging, and Robin finds a useful map.

Chapter Three: Holly, Jolly
8.8/10 (25525 votes)

#12 Chapter Three: Holly, Jolly

S1:E3
Jul 15, 2016

An increasingly concerned Nancy looks for Barb and finds out what Jonathan's been up to. Joyce is convinced Will is trying to talk to her.

Chapter Six: The Monster
8.8/10 (23691 votes)

#13 Chapter Six: The Monster

S1:E6
Jul 15, 2016

A frantic Jonathan looks for Nancy in the darkness, but Steve's looking for her, too. Hopper and Joyce uncover the truth about the lab's experiments.

Chapter Five: Dig Dug
8.8/10 (21264 votes)

#14 Chapter Five: Dig Dug

S2:E5
Oct 27, 2017

Nancy and Jonathan swap conspiracy theories with a new ally as Eleven searches for someone from her past. “Bob the Brain” tackles a difficult problem.

Chapter Seven: The Bite
8.7/10 (21899 votes)

#15 Chapter Seven: The Bite

S3:E7
Jul 4, 2019

With time running out -- and an assassin close behind -- Hopper's crew races back to Hawkins, where El and the kids are preparing for war.

Chapter Five: The Flea and the Acrobat
8.6/10 (23778 votes)

#16 Chapter Five: The Flea and the Acrobat

S1:E5
Jul 15, 2016

Hopper breaks into the lab while Nancy and Jonathan confront the force that took Will. The boys ask Mr. Clarke how to travel to another dimension.

Chapter Eight: Papa
8.6/10 (23204 votes)

#17 Chapter Eight: Papa

S4:E8
Jul 1, 2022

Nancy has sobering visions, and El passes an important test. Back in Hawkins, the gang gathers supplies and prepares for battle.

Chapter One: The Vanishing of Will Byers
8.5/10 (29064 votes)

#18 Chapter One: The Vanishing of Will Byers

S1:E1
Jul 15, 2016

On his way home from a friend's house, young Will sees something terrifying. Nearby, a sinister secret lurks in the depths of a government lab.

Chapter Three: The Pollywog
8.5/10 (21048 votes)

#19 Chapter Three: The Pollywog

S2:E3
Oct 27, 2017

Dustin adopts a strange new pet, and Eleven grows increasingly impatient. A well-meaning Bob urges Will to stand up to his fears.

Chapter Four: Will the Wise
8.5/10 (20798 votes)

#20 Chapter Four: Will the Wise

S2:E4
Oct 27, 2017

An ailing Will opens up to Joyce -- with disturbing results. While Hopper digs for the truth, Eleven unearths a surprising discovery.

Chapter Five: The Flayed
8.5/10 (21012 votes)

#21 Chapter Five: The Flayed

S3:E5
Jul 4, 2019

Strange surprises lurk inside an old farmhouse and deep beneath the Starcourt Mall. Meanwhile, the Mind Flayer is gathering strength.

Chapter Six: E Pluribus Unum
8.5/10 (21196 votes)

#22 Chapter Six: E Pluribus Unum

S3:E6
Jul 4, 2019

Dr. Alexei reveals what the Russians have been building, and Eleven sees where Billy has been. Dustin and Erica stage a daring rescue.

Chapter Six: The Dive
8.5/10 (21056 votes)

#23 Chapter Six: The Dive

S4:E6
May 27, 2022

Behind the Iron Curtain, a risky rescue mission gets underway. The California crew seeks help from a hacker. Steve takes one for the team.

Chapter Two: The Weirdo on Maple Street
8.4/10 (25684 votes)

#24 Chapter Two: The Weirdo on Maple Street

S1:E2
Jul 15, 2016

Lucas, Mike and Dustin try to talk to the girl they found in the woods. Hopper questions an anxious Joyce about an unsettling phone call.

Chapter Two: Trick or Treat, Freak
8.3/10 (21486 votes)

#25 Chapter Two: Trick or Treat, Freak

S2:E2
Oct 27, 2017

After Will sees something terrible on trick-or-treat night, Mike wonders whether Eleven's still out there. Nancy wrestles with the truth about Barb.

Chapter Three: The Monster and the Superhero
8.3/10 (21404 votes)

#26 Chapter Three: The Monster and the Superhero

S4:E3
May 27, 2022

Murray and Joyce fly to Alaska, and El faces serious consequences. Robin and Nancy dig up dirt on Hawkins' demons. Dr. Owens delivers sobering news.

Chapter Three: The Case of the Missing Lifeguard
8.2/10 (21485 votes)

#27 Chapter Three: The Case of the Missing Lifeguard

S3:E3
Jul 4, 2019

With El and Max looking for Billy, Will declares a day without girls. Steve and Dustin go on a stakeout, and Joyce and Hopper return to Hawkins Lab.

Chapter One: MADMAX
8.1/10 (22908 votes)

#28 Chapter One: MADMAX

S2:E1
Oct 27, 2017

As the town preps for Halloween, a high-scoring rival shakes things up at the arcade, and a skeptical Hopper inspects a field of rotting pumpkins.

Chapter One: The Hellfire Club
8.1/10 (25265 votes)

#29 Chapter One: The Hellfire Club

S4:E1
May 27, 2022

El is bullied at school. Joyce opens a mysterious package. A scrappy player shakes up D&D night.

Chapter Two: Vecna's Curse
8.1/10 (22166 votes)

#30 Chapter Two: Vecna's Curse

S4:E2
May 27, 2022

A plane brings Mike to California — and a dead body brings Hawkins to a halt. Nancy goes looking for leads. A shaken Eddie tells the gang what he saw.

Chapter Five: The Nina Project
8.1/10 (20593 votes)

#31 Chapter Five: The Nina Project

S4:E5
May 27, 2022

Owens takes El to Nevada, where she's forced to confront her past, while the Hawkins kids comb a crumbling house for clues. Vecna claims another victim.

Chapter Two: The Mall Rats
7.9/10 (22189 votes)

#32 Chapter Two: The Mall Rats

S3:E2
Jul 4, 2019

Nancy and Jonathan follow a lead, Steve and Robin sign on to a secret mission, and Max and Eleven go shopping. A rattled Billy has troubling visions.

Chapter One: Suzie, Do You Copy?
7.8/10 (24269 votes)

#33 Chapter One: Suzie, Do You Copy?

S3:E1
Jul 4, 2019

Summer brings new jobs and budding romance. But the mood shifts when Dustin's radio picks up a Russian broadcast, and Will senses something is wrong.

Chapter Seven: The Lost Sister
6.1/10 (31653 votes)

#34 Chapter Seven: The Lost Sister

S2:E7
Oct 27, 2017

Psychic visions draw Eleven to a band of violent outcasts and an angry girl with a shadowy past.

Chapter One: The Crawl
0.0/10

#35 Chapter One: The Crawl

S5:E1
Nov 27, 2025

Cast & Chracters

Jane 'Eleven' Hopper

Jane 'Eleven' Hopper

Actor: Millie Bobby Brown

Jane 'Eleven' Hopper, born Jane Ives, is a central character in 'Stranger Things,' portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown. She possesses psychokinetic and telepathic abilities, resulting from her participation in the clandestine Project MKUltra experiments conducted by the CIA. Raised in Hawkins National Laboratory under the supervision of Dr. Martin Brenner, Eleven escapes and forms a close bond with Mike Wheeler and his friends. Throughout the series, she grapples with her identity, seeks to understand her past, and confronts various supernatural threats. Her character is marked by resilience, curiosity, and a deep desire for connection. After being adopted by Chief Jim Hopper, she assumes the legal name Jane Hopper.

Mike Wheeler

Mike Wheeler

Actor: Finn Wolfhard

Mike Wheeler, portrayed by Finn Wolfhard, is one of the main protagonists in 'Stranger Things.' As the leader of his group of friends in Hawkins, Indiana, Mike is characterized by his loyalty, bravery, and strong moral compass. He becomes particularly close to Eleven, developing a deep bond that evolves into a romantic relationship. Throughout the series, Mike's determination and resourcefulness play a crucial role in confronting the supernatural events that plague their town. His character embodies the quintessential 1980s coming-of-age hero, navigating the challenges of adolescence while facing extraordinary circumstances.

Dustin Henderson

Dustin Henderson

Actor: Gaten Matarazzo

Dustin Henderson, played by Gaten Matarazzo, is a beloved character in 'Stranger Things' known for his intelligence, humor, and distinctive lisp. As a member of the core group of friends, Dustin often serves as the mediator, using his scientific knowledge and quick thinking to solve problems. His curiosity sometimes leads him into trouble, but his unwavering loyalty to his friends and his optimistic outlook make him a key figure in their adventures. Dustin's character adds a lighthearted and endearing element to the series, balancing the darker themes with his comedic timing and heartfelt moments.

Lucas Sinclair

Lucas Sinclair

Actor: Caleb McLaughlin

Lucas Sinclair, portrayed by Caleb McLaughlin, is a pragmatic and courageous member of the central friend group in 'Stranger Things.' Often serving as the voice of reason, Lucas approaches situations with skepticism and caution, especially when confronted with the supernatural. His military family background influences his strategic thinking and resourcefulness. Throughout the series, Lucas demonstrates growth, learning to balance his cautious nature with trust in his friends. His character highlights themes of loyalty, bravery, and the importance of questioning the unknown.

Max Mayfield

Max Mayfield

Actor: Sadie Sink

Maxine 'Max' Mayfield, played by Sadie Sink, is introduced in the second season of 'Stranger Things' as a new addition to the group. A skilled skateboarder and video game enthusiast, Max is independent, assertive, and unafraid to stand up for herself. She quickly forms a close friendship with Eleven and develops a romantic relationship with Lucas Sinclair. Max's character brings a fresh dynamic to the group, challenging traditional gender roles and adding depth to the series' exploration of adolescence and friendship.

Jim Hopper

Jim Hopper

Actor: David Harbour

Jim Hopper, portrayed by David Harbour, is the chief of police in Hawkins, Indiana, and a central character in 'Stranger Things.' A Vietnam War veteran, Hopper is initially depicted as a disillusioned and reclusive man, grappling with the loss of his daughter, Sara. His investigation into the disappearance of Will Byers leads him to uncover the town's supernatural secrets. Throughout the series, Hopper evolves into a protective father figure, especially after adopting Eleven. His character is marked by a strong sense of duty, resilience, and a willingness to confront danger to protect those he cares about.

Joyce Byers

Joyce Byers

Actor: Winona Ryder

Joyce Byers, played by Winona Ryder, is the devoted mother of Will and Jonathan Byers in 'Stranger Things.' When her son Will goes missing, Joyce's unwavering belief in his survival drives her to uncover the truth behind the supernatural occurrences in Hawkins. Her character is characterized by determination, resourcefulness, and emotional depth. Despite facing skepticism from others, Joyce's maternal instincts and relentless pursuit of answers make her a pivotal figure in the series' narrative.

Nancy Wheeler

Nancy Wheeler

Actor: Natalia Dyer

Nancy Wheeler, portrayed by Natalia Dyer, is the older sister of Mike Wheeler and a central character in 'Stranger Things.' Initially introduced as a typical high school student, Nancy's character undergoes significant development as she becomes deeply involved in investigating the mysterious events in Hawkins. Her intelligence, determination, and journalistic aspirations drive her to seek the truth, often putting her in dangerous situations. Nancy's relationships, particularly with Steve Harrington and Jonathan Byers, add complexity to her character, highlighting themes of love, loss, and personal growth.

Steve Harrington

Steve Harrington

Actor: Joe Keery

Steve Harrington, played by Joe Keery, is introduced in 'Stranger Things' as the popular high school boyfriend of Nancy Wheeler. Initially portrayed as a stereotypical '80s jock, Steve's character undergoes significant development throughout the series. He evolves into a protective and selfless figure, often referred to as the 'babysitter' of the group due to his role in safeguarding the younger characters. His unexpected friendship with Dustin Henderson and his courageous actions against supernatural threats have endeared him to fans, making him one of the show's standout characters.

Jonathan Byers

Jonathan Byers

Actor: Charlie Heaton

Jonathan Byers, portrayed by Charlie Heaton, is the older brother of Will Byers and a central character in 'Stranger Things.' An introverted and artistic individual, Jonathan has a passion for photography and a deep sense of responsibility toward his family. His outsider status at school contrasts with his strong moral compass and determination to protect his loved ones. Jonathan's relationship with Nancy Wheeler adds depth to his character, as they collaborate to uncover the mysteries surrounding Hawkins. His resilience and quiet strength make him a key figure in the series' exploration of family and loyalty.

Robin Buckley

Robin Buckley

Actor: Maya Hawke

Robin Buckley, played by Maya Hawke, is introduced in the third season of 'Stranger Things' as a witty and resourceful employee at the Scoops Ahoy ice cream parlor in the Starcourt Mall. Her sharp intellect and fluency in multiple languages prove invaluable when she deciphers Russian communications, leading to the discovery of a secret laboratory beneath the mall. Robin's character is notable for her quick wit, bravery, and the platonic friendship she forms with Steve Harrington, which adds a refreshing dynamic to the series. Her openness about her sexuality provides important representation within the show's narrative.

Murray Bauman

Murray Bauman

Actor: Brett Gelman

Murray Bauman, portrayed by Brett Gelman, is a former journalist turned conspiracy theorist in 'Stranger Things.' Introduced in the second season, Murray is hired by Nancy Wheeler and Jonathan Byers to help expose the Hawkins National Laboratory's involvement in the town's supernatural events. His eccentric personality, paranoia, and investigative skills make him a unique and memorable character. Despite his unconventional methods, Murray's insights often prove accurate, and his involvement becomes increasingly significant as the series progresses.

Sam Owens

Sam Owens

Actor: Paul Reiser

Dr. Sam Owens, played by Paul Reiser, is introduced in the second season of 'Stranger Things' as the new director of Hawkins National Laboratory, succeeding Dr. Martin Brenner. Unlike his predecessor, Dr. Owens is portrayed as a more compassionate and ethical scientist, seeking to contain the threats posed by the Upside Down while minimizing harm to the residents of Hawkins. His character serves as a bridge between the government and the protagonists, offering assistance and information to help combat the supernatural forces. Dr. Owens' nuanced portrayal adds complexity to the series' depiction of governmental involvement in scientific experimentation.

Henry Creel

Henry Creel

Actor: Jamie Campbell Bower

Henry Creel, also known as Vecna, is a central antagonist in the fourth season of 'Stranger Things,' portrayed by Jamie Campbell Bower. Born Henry Creel, he possesses powerful psychokinetic abilities and becomes the first test subject, 'One,' in Dr. Martin Brenner's experiments at Hawkins National Laboratory. After a series of tragic events, Henry transforms into Vecna, a malevolent entity from the Upside Down who preys on individuals' traumas and fears. His character serves as a significant threat to the protagonists, intertwining his dark past with the series' overarching narrative of supernatural occurrences in Hawkins.

Martin Brenner

Martin Brenner

Actor: Matthew Modine

Dr. Martin Brenner, portrayed by Matthew Modine, is a central antagonist in 'Stranger Things.' As the head scientist at Hawkins National Laboratory, he oversees the MKUltra experiments, including those involving Eleven and other children with psychokinetic abilities. Often referred to as 'Papa' by Eleven, Dr. Brenner is characterized by his manipulative and unethical methods, showing little regard for the well-being of his test subjects. His pursuit of power and knowledge leads to numerous tragic events in Hawkins, making him a pivotal figure in the series' exploration of governmental overreach and moral ambiguity in scientific research.

The highest rated episode of Stranger Things is "Chapter Seven: The Massacre at Hawkins Lab" (S4E7) with a rating of 9.60.

This episode received 43,983 votes.

It aired on May 27, 2022.


The lowest rated episode is "Chapter Seven: The Lost Sister" (S2E7) with a rating of 6.10.

This episode received 31,653 votes.

It aired on October 27, 2017.

The highest rated episode is "Chapter Eight: The Upside Down" (S1E8) with a rating of 9.30.

This episode received 29,004 votes.

It aired on July 15, 2016.


The lowest rated episode is "Chapter Two: The Weirdo on Maple Street" (S1E2) with a rating of 8.40.

This episode received 25,684 votes.

It aired on July 15, 2016.

The highest rated episode is "Chapter Nine: The Gate" (S2E9) with a rating of 9.30.

This episode received 27,406 votes.

It aired on October 27, 2017.


The lowest rated episode is "Chapter Seven: The Lost Sister" (S2E7) with a rating of 6.10.

This episode received 31,653 votes.

It aired on October 27, 2017.

The highest rated episode is "Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt" (S3E8) with a rating of 9.20.

This episode received 32,649 votes.

It aired on July 4, 2019.


The lowest rated episode is "Chapter One: Suzie, Do You Copy?" (S3E1) with a rating of 7.80.

This episode received 24,269 votes.

It aired on July 4, 2019.

The highest rated episode is "Chapter Seven: The Massacre at Hawkins Lab" (S4E7) with a rating of 9.60.

This episode received 43,983 votes.

It aired on May 27, 2022.


The lowest rated episode is "Chapter One: The Hellfire Club" (S4E1) with a rating of 8.10.

This episode received 25,265 votes.

It aired on May 27, 2022.

Name Department Job
Chris Trujillo Art Production Design
Jess Royal Art Set Decoration
John Snow Art Art Direction
Sean Brennan Art Art Direction
Amy L. Forsythe Costume & Make-Up Makeup Artist
Amy Parris Costume & Make-Up Costume Design
Nix Herrera Costume & Make-Up Prosthetic Makeup Artist
Sarah Hindsgaul Costume & Make-Up Hairstylist
Maciej Kubica Crew Stunt Coordinator
Justin Bischoff Directing Assistant Director
Barbara Harris Production ADR Voice Casting
Carmen Cuba Production Casting
Curtis Gwinn Production Executive Producer
Dan Cohen Production Executive Producer
Diego Garzon Production Assistant Production Coordinator
Emily Morris Production Co-Producer
Iain Paterson Production Executive Producer
Joshua Kohl Hegmann Production Associate Producer
Lampton Enochs Production Producer
Matt Duffer Production Executive Producer
Paula Kramer Production Co-Producer
Rand Geiger Production Producer
Richard Denault Production Co-Producer
Ross Duffer Production Executive Producer
Shawn Levy Production Executive Producer
Tudor Jones Production Co-Producer
Kyle Dixon Sound Original Music Composer
Michael Stein Sound Original Music Composer
Nora Felder Sound Music Supervisor
Lea Prainsack Visual Effects Visual Effects Producer
Mike Maher Visual Effects Visual Effects Supervisor
Terron Pratt Visual Effects Visual Effects Producer
Victor Van De Velde Visual Effects Visual Effects

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