Netflix’s pop culture-redefining series, Stranger Things recently concluded its run of season four. The show has come a long way from when it started way back in 2016. From being a light-hearted fantasy series to including more dark, depth, and gritty storylines, it has explored it all. Moreover, the actors who portray the characters on screen have become fan favorites over time. One such character is Steve Harrington played by Joe Keery.

The 31-year-old actor who started his character arc as a high school jock has since gained more maturity and intensity. However, as the show prepares for its last season, Keery feels the pain of detachment from the show that gave him his current stature.

Joe Keery admits that it will not “be easy to end” his Steve Harrington persona

Interestingly, Joe Keery’s Steve Harrington was originally meant to last for just the initial season. However, his acting prowess brought him immense fandom and thus, he stayed with the show all along. In an interview with Women’s Wear Daily, the actor opened up about the challenges of having to deal with the fact that his time on the show is coming to an end. “It does feel like it’s time. It won’t be easy for it to end,” said the actor. 

After dedicating seven years of his life to the show and, with one more season in tow, bidding adieu will be a tough call. Moreover, he has embodied the character so well that it will be hard for the actor to grow out of it. Keery also stated how he owns his career to the show and its contribution to where he is at present. However, he also realizes that it is time to let go.

The actor added, “There’s a sense of relief…a sense of sadness.” His performances on the show have won him a Screen Actors Guild Award and the love of millions of fans. Moreover, Joe Keery still has a season to shoot for the show which currently is under halted development. As such, it is to be seen how the delays will affect Season 5 of Stranger Things.

Stranger Things production reels under SAG-AFTRA delays

After Season 4 of Stranger Things set the stage for an epic final season arc with Vecna’s return on the cards, Season 5 has a lot of ground to cover. However, the show’s production is now in an indefinite halt as Netflix finds itself in the midst of the SAG-AFTRA crisis. Moreover, show makers, the Duffer brothers already have a script for the same but are not permitted to shoot owing to the strike. As such, there could be potential rewrites to account for the delay.

Although certain Netflix shows are under production along the lines of the strike, it is largely because they are crowd-funded. Yet, this is certainly not the case with Stranger Things as actors need to either cross the picket lines or stay with the Union. Therefore, the extent of damage and delays cannot be predicted as there is no sign of thaw yet. However, there have been signs of pre-production on the set.

What do you think of Joe Keery’s comments? How do you feel about Stranger Things filming its final season? Let us know in the comments below.