Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 – Netflix’s Animated Spin-Off Revives Hawkins!
Stranger Things wrapped up its main series last year, but fans aren’t saying goodbye to Hawkins yet. Netflix’s new animated spin-off, Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, dives back into the Upside Down with fresh thrills.

Release Details
The series premieres exclusively on Netflix on April 23, 2026. Official social media teasers confirm this date, teasing that “the mysteries of Hawkins don’t stand a chance against this party.”
Plot and Setting
Set in the snowy winter of 1985 between Seasons 2 and 3, the story follows Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max as they return to normal life—think D&D games and snowball fights. But a terrifying force awakens beneath the ice, possibly from the Upside Down or Hawkins Lab, pulling the gang into a new mystery.
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This timeline fits perfectly after Eleven closes the gate, blending nostalgia with unseen adventures.
Creative Team
Eric Robles develops the show, drawing from ’80s cartoon vibes as noted by the Duffer Brothers. Executive producers include Matt and Ross Duffer, Shawn Levy, and Dan Cohen. Flying Bark Productions handles animation, promising wild, limitless visuals.
Why Fans Are Hyped
With the original cast animated and new monsters lurking, this spin-off keeps the Stranger Things magic alive post-finale. Early buzz on Reddit and IMDb highlights excitement for Hawkins’ refusal to fade away.
Mark your calendars—Hawkins calls again this spring on Netflix!