Netflix’s new Stranger Things show so good, it’s already renewed for season 2
Netflix has renewed its Stranger Things animated spinoff Stranger Things: Tales from ‘85 for a second season following its strong critical and audience reception. The decision represents a significant vote of confidence in the project, which notably exceeded expectations among viewers who had grown weary of the original series’ declining final seasons.
Tales from ‘85 is set between seasons two and three of the main Stranger Things series and centers on the familiar cast including Mike, Will, Lucas, Dustin, Eleven, and Max. The animated spinoff represents Netflix’s strategic effort to extend the Stranger Things franchise beyond the conclusion of the live-action series, which concluded in late 2025 to mixed critical reception.
The original Stranger Things experienced noticeably declining reception during its fourth and fifth seasons, with the series finale leaving some uncertainty about the franchise’s future direction. The mixed response to the core series’ conclusion made many viewers skeptical about announced spinoffs and sequels. In this context, the animated spinoff’s success is particularly significant—it not only attracted audiences with diminished expectations but proved compelling enough to secure an immediate second-season renewal before the first season even concluded its run.
The quick renewal signals Netflix’s confidence in animation as a viable medium for extending the Stranger Things universe. The spinoff’s performance may influence how the company approaches revitalizing established franchises through different storytelling formats and mediums going forward.