The world of Stranger Things lit up Los Angeles on November 6 as the cast and creators gathered at the TCL Chinese Theatre to celebrate the show’s long-awaited final season. The event — held fittingly on Stranger Things Day — marked an emotional and electric farewell to one of Netflix’s most iconic series.
Fans around the globe tuned in for the livestream, which included cast interviews, red carpet moments, and a special sneak peek at the first five minutes of Stranger Things 5. If you missed the event, don’t worry — here’s a full breakdown of the five most unforgettable moments from the night that proved the end of Hawkins’ story will be nothing short of legendary.
1. Millie Bobby Brown Reflects on Eleven’s Legacy
Few characters in modern television have left as deep an impact as Eleven, the telekinetic heroine played by Millie Bobby Brown. During an on-stage interview, Brown opened up about what it meant to portray the beloved character and how much the journey has shaped her personally.
“I’m very lucky that I’ve met young people who are so deeply moved by Eleven,” Brown said. “Her story and her struggles have helped me grow as a person. As a young woman, I’m deeply inspired by her.”
Brown described Season 5 as a deeply emotional and satisfying conclusion that longtime fans will love. Her words stirred both nostalgia and excitement for what’s to come — hinting that Eleven’s final chapter will be unforgettable.
2. Priah Ferguson Reveals Her Favorite Erica Comeback
Nobody delivers sass like Erica Sinclair — and actress Priah Ferguson reminded fans why her character is such a standout. When asked about her favorite Erica moment from the series, Ferguson didn’t hesitate:
“My favorite line has to be, ‘You bald bastard,’” she said, laughing. The line came from Season 3’s explosive finale, “The Battle of Starcourt,” when Erica hilariously fired back at Murray (Brett Gelman) for underestimating her.
“She’s not four!” Ferguson joked. “She was 10 — double digits!”
It’s that signature Erica attitude — bold, confident, and razor-sharp — that makes her one of the show’s most loved characters. Fans in attendance couldn’t get enough of her witty energy and humor.
3. “Fathers of the Year” Steal the Spotlight
Who would’ve guessed that the dads of Stranger Things would become red carpet heartthrobs? Early in the evening, fans were already buzzing online after a post from the show’s official account teased:
“Ted Wheeler is out of the Laz-E-Boy. I repeat. Ted Wheeler is out of the Laz-E-Boy.”
And indeed, Joe Chrest, who plays Ted Wheeler, showed up in a sleek crushed-velvet suit, silver hair perfectly styled — a look that instantly turned heads. Fans couldn’t believe how effortlessly cool the on-screen dad looked, flooding social media with comments like “Silver fox alert!”
Meanwhile, Matthew Modine, who portrays the mysterious Dr. Brenner — affectionately known as “Papa” — had his own moment of internet fame. Fans on X (formerly Twitter) erupted with reactions like “OHHHHH DADDYYYY” and “barking respectfully.”
It’s safe to say that the Stranger Things dads gave the young stars a run for their money this time around.
4. Winona Ryder Gets Emotional About Her “Kids”
The most touching moment of the night came from Winona Ryder, who plays Joyce Byers, the fiercely protective mother of Will and Jonathan. Speaking with visible emotion, Ryder reflected on her bond with the younger cast members who have grown up during the show’s run.
“I got to spend time with all of them this season,” Ryder said, her voice trembling. “They’re just… I’ll get emotional… I’ll always love them forever.”
She even broke into a few lines of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” leaving everyone in the audience misty-eyed.
The moment reminded fans why Ryder’s performance — full of maternal warmth and vulnerability — remains one of the emotional anchors of the show. Her words perfectly captured the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to Stranger Things.
5. Fans Witness the First Five Minutes of Season 5
For fans who attended the premiere, the biggest treat of all was a sneak peek at the opening scene of Stranger Things 5. The episode, titled “The Crawl,” begins deep inside the eerie forests of the Upside Down, where Will Byers is seen alone, terrified, and hiding inside his makeshift fort — Castle Byers.
The scene reportedly sets the tone for a season that will be both emotionally intense and filled with danger.
Even if you missed the live premiere, don’t worry — Netflix will soon share clips and trailers leading up to the release. For now, fans can revisit Stranger Things Seasons 1–4 on Netflix to relive every jaw-dropping moment before the final season premieres.
A Final Goodbye to Hawkins
The Stranger Things 5 premiere wasn’t just a red-carpet event — it was a heartfelt celebration of a show that defined an era of streaming television. From Millie Bobby Brown’s heartfelt reflections to Winona Ryder’s tearful gratitude, the night was filled with nostalgia, laughter, and love.
As the final season approaches, the cast and fans alike are preparing to say goodbye to Hawkins, the Upside Down, and the friendships that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Stranger Things 5 premieres its first four episodes on November 26, followed by three episodes on Christmas and the finale on New Year’s Eve — the perfect holiday gift for fans who’ve been with the show since the beginning.
So grab your Eggos, turn on your Christmas lights, and prepare for one last ride through the Upside Down.