Almost 10 years ago, the first season of the iconic television show “Stranger Things,” created by Matt and Ross Duffer (also known as the Duffer Brothers), premiered on Netflix. Not long after, the show had a large fan base. The 80s nostalgia appealed to many generations, as did the relatable characters and developing plot of monster-fighting, parallel universes and psychokinetic powers. It quickly became one of Netflix’s most-watched originals. According to Variety, the entire series has reached 1.2 billion total views—you could certainly say it has reached a wide audience. The show concluded this year with the last episode of season five, and it has left fans grieving and recognizing the cultural impact the beloved show left behind.
“Stranger Things” brought the 1980s era to the mainstream media–-it is not like we have not seen this in cinema before, but something about this show really stuck with people. For some generations, nostalgia made the show even more intriguing, and for younger generations like me, we got to see what it was like in the ’80s. The hairstyles, fashion and music were the most notable from the series.
The song, “Running Up That Hill,” released in 1985 by Kate Bush, is one of the most popular songs from the “Stranger Things” soundtrack, and is, for the second time, becoming a chart topper 40 years later. If you have watched “Stranger Things” before, the song is probably already playing and stuck in your head, as well as the scene that goes along with it.
After watching “Stranger Things,” I have a newfound appreciation for the older eras, specifically the 80s, and I know it is not just me who feels this way. I saw a video on TikTok of a creator dancing to the song, “Head Over Heels” by Tears For Fears, and the text on the screen read, “Thank you ‘Stranger Things’ for always reminding me 80s music and vibes are superior”—all of the comments agreed. This is just an example of what people are saying; you could type “’80s” into the search bar and see hundreds of videos saying similar things.
The point is, generations who missed out on this era are yearning for something they never experienced–because we always want what we can not have, right? But I do not think that is the case this time: it is a result of “Stranger Things’” substantial impact. It is hard to tell whether people really feel this way, or whether it only applies if they get to live out the same thrilling storyline.
Not only does “Stranger Things” create a nostalgic feeling, it also sheds light on present-day issues. In an interview with “TheWrap,” Maya Hawke, who plays Robin, spoke about the role of her LGBTQ+ character in a mainstream show.
“Because so often it feels like gay characters only get to exist on shows that are about being gay, and this show is about so many things. To have a leading role in a mainstream show that everybody goes to watch, like your homophobic Uncle Rick can not avoid ‘Stranger Things’ the way that he could avoid something else,” Hawke said.
Given the number of people this show has reached, it is inevitable that these things are acknowledged (whether or not your homophobic uncle accepts it). It is just another reason why fans love “Stranger Things.”
“My proudest moments getting to play Robin have been people telling me that watching the show with their family helped them communicate with their family about their sexuality,” Hawke said.
The representation of LGBTQ+ characters in such a popular show is so important to so many. It is comforting for people to be able to see themselves in these characters who are so highly praised.
To me, “Stranger Things” stands out as one-of-a-kind because it feels bigger than just a binge-worthy show. It introduced my generation to the 1980s in a memorable way, tackled real-life issues and created a meaningful community. Though Stranger Things may be over, its influence on our society will not be forgotten.
