Caleb McLaughlin Believes Eleven is Dead

Caleb McLaughlin, known for his role as Lucas Sinclair in Netflix's Stranger Things, has offered a definitive take on the fate of Millie Bobby Brown's character, Eleven. During an appearance on ABC's The View on February 6, 2026, McLaughlin stated his belief that Eleven is deceased, advising fans to "rest in peace, Eleven." This sentiment was expressed in response to questions about the ambiguous ending of the series' December 31 finale.

McLaughlin elaborated that while his character Lucas may believe Eleven survived her sacrificial act in the Upside Down, he, as an actor, feels she is gone. He noted that the series concluded with Season 5. Sadie Sink, who plays Max Mayfield, has also publicly shared a similar interpretation, suggesting the characters' hope for Eleven's survival at the end of the episode was merely a way to cope with loss.

The actor also touched upon the Duffer Brothers' intention to preserve the show's characteristic optimism. McLaughlin is currently promoting the animated film Goat, where he stars alongside Gabrielle Union. He recounted an amusing anecdote about Union immediately inquiring about Eleven's status upon their recent reunion.