In a thrilling revelation during Netflix’s highly anticipated Tudum event, announced on Saturday that Linda Hamilton, renowned for her iconic role in the “Terminator” film franchise, will be joining the cast of “Stranger Things” Season 5.
While the specific details regarding Hamilton’s character shrouded in secrecy, fans are buzzing with excitement about her involvement in the hit series.
Linda Hamilton first captivated audiences as Sarah Connor in the groundbreaking 1984 film “The Terminator.” She continued to impress with her portrayal in the blockbuster sequel “Terminator 2: Judgement Day” in 1991 and returned to the franchise in 2019’s “Terminator: Dark Fate.” Hamilton’s impressive acting career also includes notable films such as “Children of the Corn” and her critically acclaimed television series “Beauty and the Beast,” which garnered her an Emmy nomination and two Golden Globe nominations.
Hamilton now joins a roster of iconic ’80s stars who have graced the screen in “Stranger Things,” including Winona Ryder, Matthew Modine, Sean Astin, Paul Reiser, Cary Elwes, and Robert Englund.
Earlier reports confirmed that the upcoming fifth season of “Stranger Things” will be its final installment, although no premiere date or production start has announced yet. The series’ talented creators, the Duffer Brothers, disclosed in May that they had initiated the writing process for the final season in 2022 but chose not to commence production due to the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike. In a statement, the Duffers expressed their hope for a fair resolution, stating, “We hope a fair deal reached soon so we can all get back to work. Until then — over and out. #wgastrong.”
Despite the impending conclusion of the flagship show, Netflix and the Duffer Brothers are already expanding the “Stranger Things” universe into a sprawling franchise. Recently, it was announced that an animated spinoff of the series was greenlit for production.
Additionally, Netflix unveiled plans for a live-action spinoff series and an exciting stage show in July 2022. Under a new overall deal with Netflix, the Duffer Brothers established Upside Down Pictures. Although details regarding the live-action spinoff are scarce, the Duffers have previously revealed that it will explore new characters and not focus on beloved fan favorites like Eleven or Steve Harrington. Furthermore, it revealed in March 2023 that the highly anticipated stage show would transport audiences to Hawkins in 1959, debuting in London’s esteemed West End.
As fans eagerly await the release of “Stranger Things” Season 5, the addition of Linda Hamilton to the cast promises an electrifying and nostalgic experience, solidifying the series’ reputation as a cultural phenomenon. With the expanded franchise in the works, the “Stranger Things” universe continues to captivate audiences with its imaginative storytelling and captivating characters.