Fans have literally grown up alongside the Stranger Things kids, from taking down the Demogorgon in Season 1 to facing Vecna in Season 4. Over the years, these characters have gone beyond being just fictional—they feel like family. There is a special connection, and honestly, every single update about the show hits close to home. However, the Duffer Brothers recently confirmed heartbreaking news that has left fans emotional and reflective.

Hawkins feels like home, and fans are not ready to say goodbye to the kids’ adventures—but the Duffer Brothers have other plans.

In a heartbreaking revelation, the Duffer Brothers have confirmed that Stranger Things and its beloved characters will come to a definitive end with Season 5. During a recent panal discussion at SCAD TVfest in Atlanta, Matt Duffer confirmed that the story is wrapping up, with no spin-offs in store for fan favorites including Steve and Dustin. Fans have been placed in an emotional state, bidding farewell to the cherished crew of Hawkins and unforgettable journey that captured hearts worldwide.

For years, fans have longed for a spin-off featuring fan favorites like Steve and Eleven, but there is one good news. Set for a 2025 launch, its producers assure that its conclusion will be its most ambitious yet, with a lot of work yet to be accomplished, specifically in terms of its visual effects, in an effort to have a proper wrap.

While Stranger Things’ main characters will have one last chance to say their goodbyes, a few fan favorites will not return in Season 5.

The heartbreak does not stop at the conclusion of the series. Some fan-favorite characters will not even make it through to the last episode. Catherine Curtin, who brought a warm and off-beat personality to her role of Dustin's mom, confirmed that she will not feature in the new season. To make life even worse for fans, Eduardo Franco, who stole hearts with Argyle – Jonathan's pizza-maker, California-lover best friend – confirmed that he had not received an invitation to join Season 5.

The fate of Eddie Munson, a standout character in Season 4, is in doubt, but with his seeming demise in the previous season, hope is a long shot. The series, whose production for its concluding season began in January 2024, promises an epic conclusion. As much as the Duffer Brothers assure fans that they are ahead of schedule with production, with the reality that this is in fact the start of the end for Hawkins and its heroes, anticipation for 2025 is sweeter and sad at the same time.

Key 'Stranger Things' Actor Confirms Their Exit from the Show Ahead of Season 5

What are your thoughts on Stranger Things ending with no more Hawkins gang? Drop your comments below!