Netflix has officially confirmed multiple spinoff projects expanding the universe of Stranger Things, following the planned conclusion of the flagship series with its fifth and final season. The announcements signal Netflix’s intent to continue the franchise beyond the original storyline, beginning with a newly revealed animated series and additional spinoffs currently in development.
The first confirmed project is Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, an animated television series set in the mid-1980s. The series is developed by Eric Robles, with Matt and Ross Duffer serving as executive producers alongside Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen. Animation duties are being handled by Flying Bark Productions. The project is described as returning to Hawkins and its surrounding mythology, featuring younger characters and supernatural threats connected to the Upside Down. A principal voice cast has been announced, though the series will not be live action.
Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 is scheduled for release on Netflix in 2026. While an exact premiere date has not yet been announced, the series is positioned as the first post-series expansion of the franchise to reach audiences. Netflix has confirmed that the animated project is fully in development and intended as an official part of the broader Stranger Things canon.
‘Stranger Things: Tales From ’85’ Image courtesy of Netflix
In addition to the animated series, the Duffer Brothers have publicly acknowledged that at least one live-action spinoff is also in development. Details regarding the live-action project — including its title, setting, cast, and timeline — have not yet been announced. According to the creators, the live-action spinoff is expected to explore new characters and stories within the same universe rather than continuing the core narrative of the original series.
Together, these projects represent the next phase of the Stranger Things franchise, extending its science-fiction and horror mythology beyond the original ensemble while maintaining continuity with the established world. Netflix has stated that further announcements regarding spinoff projects are expected after the release of the final season.
