The Stranger Things cast has been on location in Atlanta for weeks filming the last season of the Netflix series. However, people in online communities have been calling to disrupt the show and remove Noah Schnapp, who portrays Will Byers in it. This backlash is a result of the actor’s statements on the Israel-Palestine conflict from last year. As a central character in the sci-fi show, Schnapp is an indispensable piece of the puzzle the show will finally complete in season 5.

With tensions still running high, the 19-year-old has come forward to share his thoughts on it all. 

Noah Schnapp tries to de-escalate the backlash   

Yesterday, Schnapp shared a video on his TikTok account, clarifying his previous statements. He felt that his “thoughts and beliefs” were being “misconstrued” by people and that he simply wanted to speak from his “heart”. For him, the “peace and safety and security” of victims affected by the conflict was what was paramount. According to him, “open discussions” were key because they helped him learn “a lot”. 

According to the Abe actor, everybody was hoping for “the same things” especially because of the “loss of innocent life” in particular that of “women and children”. The actor reached out through social media to try and calm the online ecosphere, spewing judgment over him and the state of affairs across the ocean. Maybe his statements achieve the effect of appeasing those who demanded his removal from Stranger Things. 

In a way, the series might just find it impossible to finish its narrative if Schnapp is removed for this reason. 

Season 5 of Stranger Things centers on Will Byers

Ever since season 4 ended, fans of Stranger Things have heavily theorized the possibility of Will Byers becoming the main character in season 5. Then, in August last year, co-director Ross Duffer gave a nod to this speculation. He revealed in an interview that the younger Byers brother will kick off a series of events simply by “coming into his own as a young man.”

According to Duffer, one aspect of Byers that will finally come to light is “his sexuality”. Well, many believe Will to be queer and in love with his best friend. So, Schnapp’s character, who spent the majority of season 4 in the shadows of the Hawkins gang, will finally enter the spotlight beside Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven. Therefore, the 19-year-old actor’s presence is crucial to the show receiving its intended finale.

What do you think of Schnapp’s statement? Share your thoughts in the comments.