Stranger Things Season 5 Vol. 2: Shocking Twists and the Upside Down Unveiled
Stranger Things season 5 Vol. 2 delivers game-changing moments: Nancy nearly triggers disaster, Dustin uncovers the Upside Down’s true nature, and Will’s emotional coming out scene—years in the making—takes center stage.
Warning: Major spoilers ahead for Stranger Things season 5. If you haven’t caught up yet, now’s your chance to turn back!
Season 5 Vol. 2 of Stranger Things packs a punch, with three episodes that push the story to its limits. Nancy comes dangerously close to unleashing chaos on the world, Dustin finally cracks the mystery behind the Upside Down, and Max manages to reconnect with her body after a harrowing ordeal. Meanwhile, Will steps into the spotlight, opening up to his friends and family about his sexuality in a powerful moment that, according to the Duffer Brothers, was the most challenging scene to write in the entire series.
Will’s Journey and the Scene That Changed Everything
Co-creator Matt Duffer shared,
"We were so concerned about getting it right. There were a lot of things that went into it. I mean, we're definitely nervous about how it's going to go over with everyone. But not as nervous as we were handing it over to [Will Byers actor] Noah [Schnapp]. Because ultimately, it needed to resonate and be truthful for him. We really were writing it to and for Noah. He wrote us sobbing after he read it. So it really worked and resonated for him, which was great."
Ross Duffer added that Will’s coming out was originally planned for season 4, but the story’s focus on Vecna meant it had to be postponed.
"We just realized we didn't have the space to do it properly,"
he explained.
"I'm glad we didn't, because it really gave us time to arc an entire season toward this – toward this one moment. And yes, he is starting to embrace himself, which we see in Vol. 1.
The Big Reveal: Will’s Emotional Confession
In episode 7, titled 'The Bridge,' Will gathers Joyce, Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Eleven, and others at The Squawk’s headquarters. He finally shares why he’s always felt out of step with his friends. Through tears, he admits,
"I haven't told any of you this, because I don't want you to see me differently. But the truth is, I am. I am different. I don't like girls. I mean, I do, just not like you guys do."
Will describes how Vecna has haunted him with visions of coming out and the fear of being rejected or pitied by those closest to him.
"I'm alone, and I know none of that has happened and I know Vecna can't see into the future but he can't see into our minds, and he knows things, and it felt so real."
Support and What’s Next for Hawkins
Joyce, played by Winona Ryder, is the first to reassure Will, promising that his fears will never come true. Jonathan, Lucas, Dustin, and the rest of the group quickly echo her support, standing by Will in a moment that’s both raw and uplifting.
Both volumes of Stranger Things season 5 are now available to stream. The finale is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to piece together everything that’s happened so far, our breakdown of the season’s ending has you covered. Which season stands out as your favorite so far?