If fans crave more from the Stranger Things universe amid anticipation for season 5, Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 delivers fresh adventures in Hawkins. This animated Netflix spin-off captures the essence of classic 1980s Saturday morning cartoons and fits chronologically between seasons 2 and 3, featuring familiar characters in new animated form.
Release Date and Availability
Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 premieres on Netflix on April 23, 2026. The exact number of episodes remains unannounced. Meanwhile, all five seasons of the original Stranger Things series stream fully on Netflix, offering a perfect chance to revisit seasons 2 and 3.
Teaser Trailer Highlights
A teaser trailer dropped on February 2, 2026, previewing the series’ vibe. It showcases protective moments between Hopper and Eleven, the group biking through town, and iconic Hawkins spots reimagined in animation. The clip hints at a mysterious survival from 1985 events, building intrigue for fans.
Voice Cast
An entirely new voice ensemble brings the beloved characters to life:
- Brett Gipson as Jim Hopper
- Luca Diaz as Mike Wheeler
- Brooklyn Davey Norstedt as Eleven / Jane Hopper
- Braxton Quinney as Dustin Henderson
- Elisha Williams as Lucas Sinclair
- Ben Plessala as Will Byers
- Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Max Mayfield
- Jeremy Jordan as Steve Harrington
Further castings include Odessa A’zion, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Janeane Garofalo, with roles yet to be disclosed.
Plot and Tone
The story thrusts core characters into battles against fresh Upside Down monsters while solving a haunting paranormal puzzle plaguing Hawkins. Designed as entry-level Stranger Things, the series tones down intense horror for broader appeal, retaining the signature 1980s mystery and adventure spirit suitable for families.
More Stranger Things Expansions
Beyond this spin-off, the stage production Stranger Things: The First Shadow heads to Netflix filming. It explores Henry Creel’s backstory before his transformation into Vecna, providing new insights for viewers who missed the live show.
