In the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, Will Byers finally turns the tables on his tormentors. In episode four, titled "Sorcerer," Will discovers that his connection to the Upside Down hive mind can be used to control Demogorgons. When three of the creatures threaten to kill Mike, Lucas and Robin, Will's eyes turn white, and he uses his newfound power to snap their bones, saving his friends.
The catalyst for this moment comes earlier in the episode when Will's mother, Joyce, confronts a Demogorgon with an axe. Will sees through its eyes, and the creature retreats. This leads Mike to theorise that Will can "pull the strings" of the hive mind. Later, Robin shares a heartfelt story about accepting her own sexuality, encouraging Will to embrace who he is.
Noah Schnapp, who plays Will, told Variety that the scene was deeply personal. Schnapp came out as gay in January 2023, six months after confirming that his character is gay and in love with Mike. He spent over a month filming the action sequence, working through the night to perfect the performance.
Schnapp hopes Will's journey will resonate with viewers. "I wanted to tell everyone I knew," he said of the episode's emotional impact. The Duffers, creators of the show, have hinted that Will's powers will play a crucial role in the final season.
