The second part of *Stranger Things* season 5 delivered a dramatic and emotionally charged conclusion, packed with a devastating breakup, potentially fatal moments, and, crucially, Will Byers finally coming out to his loved ones.
The episode premiered on December 25th, with Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) relentlessly pursuing his goal of merging the Upside Down and the real world. Max (Sadie Sink) and Holly (Nell Fisher) initially hampered his efforts, and he quickly realized Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) held a key to his power.
Luckily, Max managed to return to Hawkins – but Holly was trapped, as the entire group, excluding Derek (Jake Connelly), turned against her. The remaining friends grappled with how to defeat Vecna and, crucially, began to uncover his sinister backstory. Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) pieced together that the Upside Down was actually a bridge to a place dubbed “The Abyss,” and Vecna’s ultimate plan was to merge the two worlds.
Just before the confrontation, El (Millie Bobby Brown), influenced by Kali (Linnea Berthelsen), came to the chilling realization that they couldn’t save the world and were forced to retreat. Eleven (now played by Sadie Sink), however, heeded Kali’s advice and vanished.
A pivotal moment arrived when Will, after a conversation with Vecna, understood his role in creating the Upside Down when his mind was possessed years prior. Filled with remorse, he resolved to stop Vecna, even confronting a bleak future where his friends rejected him. This realization spurred him to finally confess his feelings and, shockingly, his sexuality to his family, who responded with unwavering support and love.
Here’s a breakdown of where each character ended up:
Joyce Byers: Inspired by Will’s powers and his coming out, Joyce (Winona Ryder) helped Will embrace his abilities and aided Holly, though briefly trapping him in the process. Joyce was there to offer unwavering support as Will finally came out to everyone.
Jim Hopper: The initial rift between Hopper and Eleven was compounded by Kali’s influence, leading to an escalating conflict.
Mike Wheeler: Mike remained a steadfast support, engaging in a conversation with Eleven about their future, with Mike remaining cautiously optimistic while Eleven grappled with the potential dangers.
Eleven: Kali’s counsel revealed Eleven’s bleak fate – a life of unending escape.
Dustin Henderson: The emotional fight with Steve culminated in a resolution, and Dustin discovered that exotic matter was covering the Upside Down, hiding the existence of “The Abyss.”
Lucas Sinclair: Lucas played a crucial role in supporting Max as she recovered, carrying her to safety and helping her regain her strength.
Nancy Wheeler & Jonathan Byers: Nancy and Jonathan finally broke up after a stagnant relationship, with Nancy admitting she didn’t know what she wanted.
Will Byers: Will’s decision to come out to his family was the emotional core of the episode, fueled by Vecna’s vision of a future where they rejected him.
Max Mayfield: After a two-year trance, Max returned to the real world and initially spent time with Holly, but Holly was ultimately under Vecna’s control. Despite her guilt, Max eventually reunited with Lucas, now in a wheelchair.
Steve Harrington: Steve navigated the fallout with Dustin, and the events of the episode set the stage for a significant plan.
Robin Buckley: Robin relayed the truth about the unfolding situation to Vickie.
Erica Sinclair: With help from Mr. Clarke, Erica finally understood the scope of the conspiracy.
Henry Creel & Vecna: Vecna’s origins were revealed—a child shot by Henry Creel, which then escalated into a deadly confrontation. The episode showcased Vecna’s manipulative control over the children.