During a recent celebration at the Paley Center in New York City, cast members of the acclaimed series Stranger Things gathered to honor the show’s fifth and final season, which is now streaming on Netflix. Among the highlights of the panel discussion was a heartwarming recollection from co-creator Matt Duffer, who reminisced about the early days of filming and the unique bond between the cast members.
Duffer shared an endearing memory of Finn Wolfhard, who portrays Mike Wheeler, and his early interactions with co-star Joe Keery. He described how Wolfhard would follow Keery around “like a little puppy,” showcasing the close camaraderie that developed on set. This year, the roles seemed to reverse, with younger actors imitating Wolfhard’s past behavior. Duffer remarked, “That’s exactly how Finn was with Joe back in the day. It was so cute.”
In response, Wolfhard, now 22, chimed in with a nostalgic reflection, noting how Keery, 33, would follow him around as well. This playful exchange highlighted the evolution of their relationships over the years.
Protective Role Over Younger Actors
Wolfhard also opened up about how filming the final season allowed him to take on a protective role for the new child actors. He expressed a sense of responsibility towards them, likening it to safeguarding a younger version of himself. “It almost felt like I was protecting like a younger version of myself,” he said. “That was really fun.” He praised the humor and charm of the new cast members, who represent a younger generation, referring to them as “Gen Alpha.”
The conversation turned reflective as Wolfhard discussed the profound impact of working alongside his fellow cast members. “I wouldn’t know anything without these guys,” he shared. He noted that his experiences with the cast have shaped his understanding of his career aspirations. “Honestly, when you think about it, my life is kind of nothing without these people,” he added, expressing gratitude for the journey they have shared.
Emotional Farewell to the Series
As the series approaches its conclusion, Wolfhard expressed mixed emotions about the ending of Stranger Things. In a previous interview with PEOPLE, he conveyed satisfaction with his character’s arc but also a sense of confusion and sadness about leaving the show behind. “I felt like I was in a dream or something. None of it felt real,” he explained, adding that he experienced what he called “an emotional hangover” after filming his final scene.
The cast gathered together for the last day of shooting, a moment Wolfhard described as “really great.” The bond formed over the years has created lasting friendships, making the parting bittersweet.
Vol. 1 of Stranger Things Season 5 is currently available on Netflix, with Vol. 2 set to release on December 25, 2025, followed by the series finale on December 31 at 20:00 ET. As fans prepare to say goodbye to a beloved series, the memories shared by the cast remind us of the journey and connections formed during its production.
