During Netflix TUDUM on November 6, 2025, an exclusive preview of the first five minutes of Stranger Things Season 5 was revealed at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Fans waited eagerly for two hours before witnessing the chilling opening sequence of the final season.
The premiere starts with 12-year-old Will Byers in 1983, shortly after his kidnapping by the Demogorgon. He lies in the Upside Down forest, asleep and singing “Should I Stay Or Should I Go.” Moments later, Will awakens in terror.
He heard the sound of the Demogorgon, who is approaching him to attack.
Will grabs a gun and fires, but it has no effect. He quickly flees, climbing a tree with the creature pursuing him. After attempting to jump to another tree, Will falls and loses consciousness.
The Demogorgon drags Will to a dark place where Vecna appears, as terrifying as ever. Tentacles seize Will, pressing him against the wall with a tightening grip.
“The tentacles grab Will and push him toward the wall, tightening the grip.”
This opening sequence sets a brutal tone for the final season, revealing the terrifying fate of Will Byers moments after his kidnapping in 1983.
The intense premiere of Stranger Things Season 5 reveals Will Byers’ harrowing 1983 ordeal, promising a darker and more brutal final chapter.