Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 brings new animated mystery to Hawkins in 2026.
The world of Hawkins is far from finished. Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 expands the beloved universe with a brand-new animated series that brings fans back to the chilling mystery, heartfelt friendships, and supernatural dangers that made the franchise a global phenomenon.
Set during the winter of 1985, the new series takes place in the aftermath of the chaos that left Hawkins forever changed. While the horrors of the Upside Down appear to be fading, the quiet calm of small-town life proves temporary. Beneath the snow-covered streets, something sinister is awakening, setting the stage for a new chapter in the Stranger Things mythology.
The animated series comes from showrunner Eric Robles and executive producers Matt and Ross Duffer, the creators behind the original hit series. The project is produced through Upside Down Pictures, with Shawn Levy executive producing via 21 Laps alongside Hilary Leavitt and Dan Cohen. Animation production is handled by Flying Bark, a studio known for delivering visually dynamic storytelling.
A Winter Mystery Returns Hawkins to Danger
During the winter of 1985, Eleven and her friends attempt to reclaim normal life after the terrifying events that have haunted Hawkins. The group spends time reconnecting through familiar activities like Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, snowball fights, and quiet moments that reflect the fleeting innocence of youth.
However, peace does not last long. A mysterious new threat begins to emerge beneath the frozen landscape, raising unsettling questions about its origins. The danger may be connected to the Upside Down, the secrets hidden within Hawkins Lab, or something entirely unexpected.
As the mystery unfolds, Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max must once again work together to protect their town. The series promises suspense, emotional storytelling, and supernatural intrigue that continues the legacy of Stranger Things while exploring new corners of its expanding universe.
Voice Cast Introduces a New Generation of Performances
Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 features a talented voice cast bringing iconic characters to life in animated form.
Brooklyn Davey Norstedt voices Eleven, alongside Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Max, Luca Diaz as Mike, Elisha “EJ” Williams as Lucas, Braxton Quinney as Dustin, Ben Plessala as Will, and Brett Gipson as Hopper.
New characters are introduced through Odessa A’zion as Nikki Baxer, Jeremy Jordan as Steve, Janeane Garofalo as Anna Baxter, and Lou Diamond Phillips as Daniel Fischer.
Additional voice cast includes Robert Englund as Cosmo, Alysia Reiner as Karen Wheeler, Alessandra Antonelli as Nancy Wheeler, Valeria Rodriguez as Rosario, and Jack Griffo as Jeff.
The combination of recognizable characters and new additions suggests the story will expand Hawkins in meaningful ways while introducing fresh perspectives tied to the growing mythology.
Animation Allows the Stranger Things Universe to Grow
The animated format provides creative freedom to explore supernatural elements, new creatures, and unseen locations connected to the Upside Down. With 10 episodes running approximately 30 minutes each, the series offers space to build tension, deepen character relationships, and introduce storylines that complement the live-action series.
Flying Bark’s animation style is expected to bring cinematic energy to the franchise, allowing the eerie atmosphere of Hawkins to evolve visually while maintaining the emotional core that defines Stranger Things.
Because the story takes place in 1985, the series connects directly to one of the most beloved eras of the franchise, reinforcing the nostalgic tone that blends coming-of-age storytelling with supernatural horror.
The Upside Down Still Holds Secrets
As the Stranger Things universe continues to expand across formats, Tales From ’85 represents another major step in building the franchise’s long-term storytelling future. The involvement of the Duffer Brothers ensures continuity with the original vision, while the animated approach introduces new possibilities for exploring untold stories within the timeline.
Even as Hawkins appears calm on the surface, the darkness beneath continues to grow. Fans can expect mystery, emotional depth, and suspense as Eleven and her friends face yet another unknown threat.
The series premieres April 23, 2026 on Netflix.
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