The upcoming season of Stranger Things promises closure, but a lingering question remains: Did the show's creators ever truly understand the fans' deep connection to Barb?
Stranger Things fans, get ready! Season 5 is slated to arrive on Netflix in three parts: November 26, December 25, and December 31, 2025. After nearly a decade, the series aims to tie up loose ends. Yet, one unresolved issue continues to resonate: justice for Barb, played by Shannon Purser. Her untimely demise in Season 1, at the hands of creatures from the Upside Down, sparked a fervent fan outcry. Despite promises, her story felt incomplete.
In a recent interview with Time, the Duffer Brothers, the show's creators, admitted they didn't initially grasp the fans' attachment to Barb. They were focused on Will Byers' disappearance, which is understandable, but their lack of understanding is surprising.
During a set visit, writer Eliana Dockterman revealed she nearly stumbled upon a replica of Barb's body in the Upside Down, hinting at her reappearance, though not in a positive light. When questioned about Barb, the Duffers' response was telling. Ross Duffer reportedly rolled his eyes when discussing Netflix's persistent requests to address Barb's fate, stating, "It's a show about Will." While his brother acknowledged Netflix's insight, Ross admitted, "We neglected her, and as such, Hawkins neglected her, and it made her that much more famous."
And this is the part most people miss... Barb's death ignited a major controversy, with the hashtag #JusticeforBarb trending widely. Many fans felt she deserved a more dignified storyline.
But here's where it gets controversial... The narrative around Barb's character arguably fits the 'fridging' trope, where a (typically female) character is killed off to advance a male character's plot. Barb's existence primarily served Will's story, which is a disappointing narrative choice. Examples of this include Giah's death in Marvel's Secret Invasion and the deaths of L3-37 and Val in Solo: A Star Wars Story. It's disheartening that the Duffers seem to still struggle with this perspective. Perhaps seeing Barb again will offer some form of resolution.
Part 1 of season 5 of Stranger Things arrives on Netflix on November 26, 2025. What do you think? Do you agree with the fans' sentiments about Barb, or do you see it differently? Share your thoughts in the comments!
