The Duffer Brothers, creators of Netflix's 'Stranger Things', have addressed criticism over the lack of major character deaths in the show's fifth and final season. The finale, which aired recently, has been heavily criticised by fans for not killing off any main characters, with only villains Kali, Vecna, and the Mind Flayer meeting their end.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the Duffer Brothers explained their decision, stating that they 'love these characters and these actors so much'. They added that they 'don't know' if Eleven actually died at the end, suggesting that a definitive answer would render her sacrifice meaningless. The finale hinted that Eleven survived, with Will telling the party he 'believes' she made it out.
Speaking to Deadline, the brothers revealed that they considered every possibility in the writers' room but ultimately decided that the show is 'an adventure story'. They wanted to focus on the characters' growth and where to leave them, concluding that most heroes should survive. The series has only killed off four major characters—Bob, Billy, Barb, and Eddie—excluding villains, throughout its entire run.
Despite promises that the finale would not be a 'Game of Thrones Red Wedding-style massacre', many fans expected higher stakes. The closest thing to a major death in the final episodes was the anonymous military soldiers killed by Vecna. The Duffer Brothers acknowledged the criticism but stood by their choice, emphasising the emotional weight of Eleven's potential sacrifice.
