Why did Stranger Things avoid major character deaths in its finale?

The creators prioritized the show's emotional core and coming-of-age theme over shock value or a high body count.

Did the Duffer Brothers consider killing off main characters in Stranger Things?

Yes, all character fates were discussed, but major deaths were deemed unsuitable for the story's narrative.

What was the main focus of the Stranger Things series finale ending?

The finale focused on staying true to the show's established themes and emotional journey, rather than concluding with a massacre.

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Stranger Things Finale: No Major Deaths, Focus on Emotion

12 Jan

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Summary

Creators prioritized emotional core over shock value.
Major character deaths were discussed but deemed wrong for the story.
The finale reinforced the series' coming-of-age adventure theme.

Stranger Things Finale: No Major Deaths, Focus on Emotion

The creators of Stranger Things opted against a "Game of Thrones-style" ending for the series finale, choosing to prioritize the emotional core of the story over shock value or major character deaths. This decision, explained by the Duffer Brothers, was rooted in maintaining the narrative's integrity as a coming-of-age adventure.

Within the writers' room, while all potential character fates were explored, the discussion around fatalities occupied a small portion of their time. The Duffer Brothers emphasized that the series was never about a body count, and that sacrificing characters would undermine the foundational themes established since the first season.

This commitment to the show's essence shaped the final outcome, reinforcing the emotional through line that the series always valued. Even Eleven's fate was left with ambiguity, allowing for interpretation rather than definitive finality, ensuring the finale resonated with the show's established spirit.