Season 4 of Stranger Things will reportedly have nine episodes, including one that reveals the origin story for a key character on the Netflix series. Released in 2016, the show revolves around the bizarre happenings in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, and the people who live there in the '80s. Initially taking its cues from the works of Stephen King, John Carpenter, and Steven Spielberg, Stranger Things gradually evolved into a more all-encompassing love letter to the '80s over its subsequent two seasons.

The show has only gotten bigger over that same time, with season 3 drawing comparisons to actual '80s summer blockbusters in terms of scale. However, creators Matt and Ross Duffer have refrained from making Stranger Things' seasons longer along the way, with seasons 1 and 3 only spanning eight episodes. Season 2 was a little longer at nine thanks to "The Lost Sister", a divisive episode that focused on a story tangential to the season's overarching narrative. By the sound of things, season 4 might include a similar installment.

Related: Stranger Things Reveals Where Kali Was in Season 3

According to TVLine, Stranger Things season 4 may be nine episodes long, which is one more than the eight episodes originally planned. That would include an episode that focuses on a "fan-favorite" character and explores his/her origin story. The outlet reports said character's backstory could ultimately end up being explored in full over the course of multiple episodes, depending on how the season's writing goes.

Millie Bobby Brown in Stranger Things 3 Netflix

Stranger Things seasons 1 and 3 maintained a tight pace thanks to their episode count, so it's good to hear season 4 won't be too much longer. For the most part, season 2 was equally well-paced; the only reason "The Lost Sister" stuck out was because it interrupted the flow from the episode before it (which concluded with a cliffhanger). Some even regard "The Lost Sister" as Stranger Things' most exciting storyline and feel season 3 suffered because it took the wrong lesson from the episode, believing the criticisms had more to do with its subject matter than its placement in season 2. So long as it's integrated better, an episode focusing on a key player's origins could make for a refreshing addition to Stranger Things season 4.

Arguably, the show could stand to mix things up more in general next season. Stranger Things season 3 was a massive success for Netflix in terms of viewership, but it often seemed afraid of trying new things or taking risks similar to "The Lost Sister". Fortunately, it already looks like Stranger Things season 4 will change up the series' formula, starting by moving the story partly outside Hawkins. Combined with deeper insight into an important character (maybe one who's currently presumed dead?), that should help the show to keep things fresh when it returns.

NEXT: Stranger Things Has a Big Clue That Hopper is the American Prisoner

Stranger Things season 4 is tentatively expected to premiere in 2021.

Source: TVLine