Netflix has reportedly debunked rumors surrounding a potential surprise episode of “Stranger Things,” shutting down speculation about an alleged finale called “Conformity Gate.” Following the series’ December 31 conclusion, fans speculated that the ending they witnessed was a fake-out, hinting at a hidden ninth episode to correct the perceived discrepancies.
Fans theorized that the defeat of the villain Vecna and the characters’ return to the real world in the finale might have been an elaborate illusion. While social media buzzed with theories based on clues from past seasons, Netflix has not responded to requests for clarification.
Compared to the divisive finale of “Game of Thrones,” the conclusion of “Stranger Things” Season 5 faced criticism for its unresolved plotlines and a conclusion that seemed more focused on setting up future spinoffs than delivering a satisfying ending.
Critics like Stuart Heritage from The Guardian and Angie Han from The Hollywood Reporter expressed disappointment, with some calling the episode lacking in emotional depth and thematic substance. NPR’s Linda Holmes noted concerns about the characters’ expanding supernatural abilities potentially distorting reality within the show.
The speculation around a potential secret episode stemmed from the belief that Vecna’s mind control could have manipulated the characters and audience alike. The theory gained traction on platforms like TikTok and Reddit, with fans dissecting subtle details in the show to support their claims.
Contrary to expectations, Netflix did not release an additional episode as rumored. Instead, the streaming platform released a trailer featuring Teyana Taylor promoting upcoming content. The Duffer brothers, the show’s creators, confirmed that the main characters’ story concludes with Season 5, although they are working on a spinoff to address lingering questions.
An animated series titled “Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85” is set to bridge the gap between the second and third seasons, exploring new mysteries and supernatural threats in the characters’ town before the spinoff series debuts.