The new Stranger Things spin-off series, Tales From 85, is now streaming on Netflix, but fans may notice something different: all original characters have been recast. The decision was made to bring in a new ensemble for this animated adventure set between earlier seasons of the main show.
Why the Recast?
The action takes place when the characters were younger, necessitating younger actors. This allows for a fresh take while maintaining the beloved Hawkins setting and storylines.
Main Cast Replacements
- Eleven: Brooklyn Davey Norstedt takes over from Millie Bobby Brown. Her previous credits include an episode of Apple TV+'s WeCrashed.
- Max: Jolie Hoang-Rappaport, known for In Your Dreams and My Adventures With Superman, voices Max.
- Mike: Luca Diaz steps in, with voice work in Erin & Mike and Transformers Earthspark.
- Lucas: Elisha “EJ” Williams, from The Wonder Years remake, plays Lucas.
- Dustin: Braxton Quinney, who provided additional voices in Pixar's Hoppers, takes on Dustin.
- Will: Benjamin Plessala, with credits in The Last of Us Part II and Haunted Hotel, voices Will.
- Hopper: Brett Gipson, a stunt performer with roles in Shameless and NCIS, replaces David Harbour.
- Steve: Jeremy Jordan, known from Supergirl, voices Steve.
- Nancy Wheeler: Alessandra Antonelli, mostly known for short films, plays Nancy.
- Karen Wheeler: Alysia Reiner from Orange Is The New Black takes over.
New Characters
- Nikki Baxter: Odessa A’zion, from I Love LA and Until Dawn, introduces a new character.
- Anna Baxter: Janeane Garofalo, known for Wet Hot American Summer, plays Nikki's mother.
- Daniel Fischer: Lou Diamond Phillips, from Longmire and Brooklyn Nine Nine, joins the cast.
- Cosmo: Robert Englund, who played Victor Creel in the original series, returns in a new role.
- Rosario: Valeria Rodriguez, from Monster High and Star Wars Young Jedi Adventures.
- Jeff: Jack Griffo, from The Thundermans, voices Jeff.
Stranger Things: Tales From 85 is now available to stream exclusively on Netflix.
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