The new Stranger Things spinoff universe includes two exciting projects: the animated series Stranger Things: Tales from ’85—continuing the Hawkins adventures with new voice actors—and an upcoming live-action spinoff set in a fresh location with entirely new characters and mythology. These expand the brand beyond the original saga while connecting to lingering mysteries.
What’s the Animated Spinoff About?
This isn’t a reboot—it’s Tales from ’85, a new animated adventure.
Setting and Style
- Set in Hawkins during the winter of 1985, nestled between Seasons 2 and 3.
- Styled like an ‘80s Saturday-morning cartoon, aiming for playful nostalgia with a dash of horror.
- Creators Matt and Ross Duffer are executive producers, with Eric Robles as showrunner.
Plot & Tone
- Eleven, Mike, Will, Lucas, Dustin, and Max face new Upside Down threats and explore a paranormal mystery creeping back into Hawkins.
- New monsters—such as pumpkin zombies and vine-like creatures—wreak havoc.
- Tone is friendlier and more accessible—less gore, more warmth—making it suitable for broader audiences.
Cast & Production
- Iconic characters return through new voice actors, including Brooklyn Davey Norstedt as Eleven, Luca Diaz as Mike, Ben Plessala as Will, and others.
- Voice cast also includes Odessa A’zion, Janeane Garofalo, and Lou Diamond Phillips in new roles.
- Animation handled by Flying Bark Productions; production by Upside Down Pictures and 21 Laps.
Release Info
- Slated to premiere on Netflix on April 23, 2026.
- The trailer and first look dropped during Stranger Things Day celebrations in late 2025.
“What we’ve been able to capture is the magic of Hawkins in a new way,” said showrunner Eric Robles.
What to Expect from the Live‑Action Spinoff
Unfolding beyond Hawkins, this new project promises intrigue and originality.
Fresh Foundations
- Entirely new characters, setting, and mythology. Not tied to Hawkins or the core cast.
- But it’s still distinctly Stranger Things: kids, sci-fi/fantasy, adventurous tone.
Tying Up Loose Ends
- Will address mysteries around Henry Creel’s rock and its link to Dimension X/Mind Flayer.
- Matt Duffer assures it provides answers to lingering threads, even if not focusing on the Upside Down directly.
Production Status
- Creators restarted work on January 5, 2026.
- Netflix confirmed it’s a separate live-action series tied to the Stranger Things universe—not the animated spinoff.
How This Expands the Universe
The two spinoffs—animated and live-action—open new story highways while preserving the original spirit.
- Tales from ’85 keeps fans close with beloved characters, adding nostalgic horror twists.
- The live-action branch embraces creative freedom, inventive world-building, and gives room to answer unfinished mysteries.
- Together, they create a multi-format universe: stage, animation, and potentially multiple live-action directions.
Summary Table
| Project | Format | Setting | Characters | Focus | Release/Status |
|———————————-|————–|———————————–|———————|—————————————–|—————————-|
| Tales from ’85 | Animated | Hawkins, winter 1985 | Original kids (new voices) | New Upside Down monsters, fun mystery | April 23, 2026 (Netflix) |
| Live‑Action Spinoff (untitled) | Live action | New town/time | All new cast | Rock mystery, new mythology | Development since Jan 2026 |
Conclusion
At its core, the Stranger Things universe is evolving. The animated Tales from ’85 keeps us in Hawkins with familiar faces, spooky fun, and a retro vibe—just in cartoon form. Meanwhile, the live‑action project ventures into unknown territory, promising fresh lore and answers to unsolved mysteries without reusing existing characters. These spinoffs show the Duffers are wrapping up one story—and starting new ones. It’s not the end of Hawkins—it’s the beginning of a bigger upside-down world.
FAQs
Are these spinoffs canon within the Stranger Things universe?
Yes. Tales from ’85 continues between Seasons 2 and 3 and retains canonical characters and setting. The live-action series connects loosely, offering new mythology, but remains part of the official universe.
Will the original actors appear in Tales from ’85?
No. The characters return via new voice actors, though the animated kids remain the same as in the live action.
When can we watch Tales from ’85?
It’s set to premiere on Netflix on April 23, 2026.
What does the live-action spinoff focus on?
It digs into unresolved elements like the mysterious rock tied to Henry Creel and Dimension X, while launching a brand-new environment and cast.
Are there more projects beyond these two?
The stage play Stranger Things: The First Shadow debuted in West End and moved to Broadway; other projects may follow based on this expanding ecosystem.
