Stranger Things Animated Spin-off 'Tales From '85' Announced

Netflix is set to expand the 'Stranger Things' universe with a new animated spin-off, 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85,' designed to transport viewers back to the iconic 1980s. This new venture promises to deliver a nostalgic tribute to the era's beloved Saturday morning cartoons, building on the rich narrative established between the second and third seasons of the original live-action series. The Duffer Brothers, creators of the critically acclaimed show, have hinted that this animated installment will offer a fresh perspective on the familiar world of Hawkins, Indiana, and the mysterious Upside Down, allowing for new adventures and character explorations.

The animation for 'Tales From '85' is being handled by Flying Bark Productions, a studio renowned for its work on other popular animated projects such as 'What If…?' and 'Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.' Eric Robles, known for his contributions to 'Fanboy & Chum Chum' and 'Glitch Techs,' will serve as the showrunner, bringing his distinct creative vision to the series. Early promotional materials have teased intriguing plot elements, including the appearance of a monstrous carnivorous plant and a zombie-like creature roaming the streets of Hawkins, suggesting a darker, more adventurous tone. This animated format offers a unique opportunity to explore storylines and visuals that might be challenging to achieve in live-action, further enriching the 'Stranger Things' lore.

Interestingly, while an animated series could have provided a way for the original young cast to continue their roles as their characters, they will not be lending their voices to 'Tales From '85.' Instead, new, emerging young actors will take on these iconic roles, ensuring a fresh vocal ensemble for the spin-off. This casting decision highlights the creative team's intention to differentiate the animated series from the main show while maintaining thematic connections. The announcement of 'Tales From '85' was strategically made on November 6th, a date designated as 'Stranger Things Day' by Netflix, commemorating the fictional date Will Byers first disappeared in 1983, adding a symbolic touch to the reveal.

In related news, the highly anticipated fifth and final season of 'Stranger Things' is scheduled to conclude with a two-hour finale on New Year's Eve. The season premiere is set for November 6th in Los Angeles, featuring a live stream with cast interviews and an exclusive preview of the first five minutes. The initial four episodes of the final season will be available on Netflix on November 26th, with three additional episodes releasing on Christmas Day, leading up to the grand finale. 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85' is slated to debut in 2026, offering fans another chapter in the beloved saga after the conclusion of the main series.

This upcoming animated series underscores Netflix's commitment to expanding the 'Stranger Things' universe, offering fans a new way to experience the beloved franchise. By tapping into the nostalgic charm of 80s cartoons and introducing fresh talent, 'Tales From '85' aims to capture the essence of what made the original show so captivating, while forging its own distinct path.