Stranger Things Spinoff Series to Mirror Twin Peaks Anthology Format, Reveals Star

The final battle for Hawkins approaches in Stranger Things Season 5, but the Upside Down’s reach is set to expand far beyond Indiana. Finn Wolfhard, who plays Mike Wheeler, has unveiled groundbreaking details about Netflix’s planned live-action spinoff series, describing it as a Twin Peaks-style anthology exploring new corners of the show’s supernatural universe.

What Can Fans Expect from the Stranger Things Spinoff?

In a recent interview with Variety, Wolfhard revealed the spinoff will adopt an anthology format reminiscent of David Lynch’s cult classic Twin Peaks. Unlike the original series, it won’t revisit Hawkins or feature core characters like Eleven or Hopper. Instead, it will weave standalone stories connected solely through the mythology of the Upside Down.

“Don’t even talk about Hawkins. Don’t mention our characters,” Wolfhard emphasized. “I think the coolest way… there has to be labs everywhere. If there was one in Hawkins, there’s one in Russia. Where else could they be?”

Remarkably, creators Matt and Ross Duffer confirmed Wolfhard accurately deduced their vision without prior consultation. “Nobody else has figured out what the spinoff is. Finn did, which is pretty remarkable. We’ve mind-melded with this kid,” Ross Duffer told Variety. The revelation hints at a globe-spanning narrative exploring hidden government facilities and interdimensional threats beyond Hawkins.

Animated Spinoff and Expanded Universe Plans

Alongside the live-action anthology, Netflix is developing Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, an animated series set between Seasons 2 and 3 of the flagship show. The Duffers described it as a passion project inspired by 80s Saturday morning cartoons.

“We’ve always dreamed of an animated Stranger Things … and to see this dream realized has been absolutely thrilling,” they told Netflix’s Tudum in April 2025. Eric Robles (Glitch Techs) will serve as showrunner. While plot details remain scarce, the series could revisit fan-favorite characters during a relatively peaceful period in Hawkins’ timeline.

These projects stem from Upside Down Pictures, the Duffers’ production company launched in 2022 to expand the franchise. Though Netflix hasn’t greenlit the live-action spinoff officially, the brothers’ exclusive deal with the streamer makes development likely post-Season 5.

When Will Stranger Things Season 5 Premiere?

The main series concludes with a three-part finale:

• Part 1: November 26, 2025
• Part 2: December 25, 2025
• Part 3: December 31, 2025

This staggered release sets the stage for new chapters in the franchise. As production wraps on Hawkins’ saga, the anthology approach offers longevity without relying on its original cast—many of whom, like Millie Bobby Brown, have launched major film careers.

The Duffer brothers’ Twin Peaks-inspired vision transforms the Stranger Things spinoff into a bold reinvention. By abandoning nostalgia for fresh nightmares across global settings, Netflix aims to sustain its flagship universe for years beyond Eleven’s final showdown.

Must Know

What is the Stranger Things spinoff about?
The live-action spinoff will adopt an anthology format similar to Twin Peaks, featuring disconnected stories united by the Upside Down’s mythology. New settings and characters will explore global manifestations of the show’s supernatural threats, moving beyond Hawkins entirely.

Will original cast members return?
No. Finn Wolfhard confirmed the spinoff won’t include characters from the main series. The anthology format allows new narratives without relying on Eleven, Mike, or other established roles.

Is the animated spinoff connected?
Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 exists separately. Set between Seasons 2 and 3, it revisits core characters in animated form. The Duffer brothers serve as executive producers alongside showrunner Eric Robles.

When does Stranger Things Season 5 release?
Season 5 debuts in three parts: November 26, 2025 (Part 1), December 25, 2025 (Part 2), and December 31, 2025 (Part 3). The spinoff’s development will accelerate after the finale.

Why a Twin Peaks comparison?
Like David Lynch’s series, the spinoff will blend surreal horror with self-contained stories sharing a central mystery (here, the Upside Down). This structure enables creative flexibility while expanding lore.