Did Stranger Things use AI to de-age Winona Ryder?

No, the young Joyce Maldonado character was played by singer Birdy, who bears a striking resemblance to Winona Ryder.

Who is Birdy in Stranger Things?

Birdy made a cameo appearance as a young Joyce Maldonado in the show's fifth season.

What is the significance of the play in Stranger Things?

The play mentioned in the episode features younger versions of parents of several main characters, hinting at deeper story connections.

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Stranger Things: Birdy's Shocking Doppelganger Role

1 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Singer Birdy portrays young Joyce Maldonado, not an AI Winona Ryder.
Birdy's uncanny resemblance to Winona Ryder amazed viewers.
The cameo features a play with many familiar character parents.

Stranger Things: Birdy's Shocking Doppelganger Role

In its fifth and final season, Stranger Things surprised audiences with a cameo appearance by British singer-songwriter Birdy portraying a young Joyce Maldonado in 1959. Many viewers were astonished, believing the show had used AI to de-age Winona Ryder, who plays the adult Joyce. Birdy herself clarified the situation on Instagram, confirming her role and eliciting widespread admiration for the uncanny physical similarity between her and Ryder.

The scene, set in Hawkins High, also revealed a play program listing younger versions of several familiar characters' parents, including Jim Hopper, Karen and Ted Wheeler, and Eddie Munson. This detail, along with a mention of "Harrington," suggests potential future glimpses into Steve Harrington's family history. The Duffer Brothers have indicated that elements from the stage play "Stranger Things: The First Shadow" will intertwine with the final season.