Stranger Things season 5’s episode count is teased in a new behind-the-scenes image. After an almost three-year hiatus, Stranger Things swiftly became Netflix’s most-watched English series this summer—which dominated popular culture with its soundtrack, characters (new and old) and story. Following the battle with the Mind Flayer at Starcourt Mall, season 4 expanded the series’ lore and introduced the Upside Down’s big bad in Vecna.
In addition to being its darkest, Stranger Things season 4 became the show's longest as it was split across two volumes released (roughly) a month apart. Audiences were treated to nearly 13 hours worth of runtime throughout its 9 episodes, with the finale clocking in at a gargantuan 2 hours and 19 minutes. In the wake of every episode feeling like a feature, creators Matt and Ross Duffer have seemingly confirmed the size of Stranger Things’ fifth and final installment.
The official Twitter account for Stranger Things’ writing team (@strangerwriters) recently teased season 5’s episode count. The BTS image appears to confirm season 5 will have fewer entries than its predecessor, showing a whiteboard outlining 8 episodes. Check out the post below:
The Duffer brothers previously teased their plan for Stranger Things' season 5's shorter runtime compared to season 4. The pair said they were interested in adhering to Stranger Things season 1’s “simplicity of the structure” while still delivering a massive, full circle finale. Runtime aside, the episode count of each season has oscillated between eight and nine episodes depending upon the narrative/pacing. Following delays due to COVID-19, the writers were given more time to complete the scripts for season 4. Ultimately, this resulted in 70+ minute episodes—which wasn’t initially the Duffer brothers’ intention.
Stranger Things’ writing team confirmed they were in the early stages of developing season 5 on August 2nd. While plans are subject to change throughout the creative process, news that season 5 will be shorter than its predecessor is sure to spark mixed reactions. Season 4’s release schedule and runtime certainly contributed to its cultural impact. However, filming for season 5 will reportedly begin sometime next year. With a 2024 release date likely, audiences won’t have to wait three years to see what happens after the Upside Down's takeover. Further, season 5’s storyline will take place entirely in Hawkins and focus on its core group. As the Duffer brothers resist the urge to introduce new characters in Stranger Things season 5, 8 succinct episodes should be more than enough time to bid farewell to The Party.
Source: Stranger Writers/Twitter