The final season of Netflix’s Stranger Things has arrived, and with it, a new wave of characters set to shake up the town of Hawkins—and the Upside Down. Volume 1 of Season 5 premiered on November 26, 2025, featuring the first four episodes, and introduced three key additions to the cast: Linda Hamilton, Jake Connelly, and Alex Breaux.
Fans of the series can also spot a new face in the Wheeler family, as the role of Holly Wheeler has been recast with British actress Nell Fisher. Here’s a closer look at the fresh faces joining the final season and their roles in the epic showdown against Vecna.
Linda Hamilton Joins as Dr. Kay, a Military Scientist Hunting Eleven
Linda Hamilton, the legendary Terminator star, brings her signature toughness to Stranger Things as Dr. Kay. The actress revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that she received the role just two weeks after contemplating retirement. “Not because there isn’t enough to do, but just I’m tired of being tough,” Hamilton explained.
Dr. Kay is introduced in the premiere episode, “Chapter One: The Crawl,” as a military scientist obsessed with tracking down Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown). In one of her first scenes, Dr. Kay examines a creature from the Upside Down, a monster that doesn’t bite but strangles. She quickly establishes herself as a force to be reckoned with: “Please tell your commander that I am running into a wall here,” she tells a sergeant, underscoring her dedication to stopping the chaos before more innocent lives are lost.
Hamilton shared that joining the series was both exciting and intimidating. “It’s kind of like imposter syndrome where I don’t feel that I fit in there,” she admitted to Us Weekly, highlighting how much she admires the show.
Nell Fisher Recasts Holly Wheeler, Facing Vecna’s Threat
While Holly Wheeler isn’t a new character, Season 5 recasts her with 14-year-old Nell Fisher. Holly, the younger sister of Mike (Finn Wolfhard) and Nancy (Natalia Dyer), becomes an early target for Vecna’s terror in Hawkins.
In Volume 1, Holly experiences unsettling visits from a mysterious figure she claims is protecting her from the monsters. Her interactions with this “mystery friend” quickly draw concern from her mother and teachers, setting the stage for the harrowing challenges she will face this season.
Jake Connelly Plays Derek Turnbow, Vecna’s Next Target
Jake Connelly joins the cast as Derek Turnbow, a character whose fate becomes entwined with the main group when Will (Noah Schnapp) senses Derek’s vulnerability to Vecna. The 13-year-old actor was cast in July 2024 and described his experience filming in Atlanta as unforgettable.
Reflecting on his role, Connelly wrote on Instagram, “So sad closing my trailer door for the last time, but the memories and friendships I made will last forever. Thank you to the most amazing cast and crew for all of their guidance and support.” Derek’s journey promises to be suspenseful as he navigates the dangers of both Hawkins and the Upside Down.
Alex Breaux Joins as Lt. Robert Akers, Dr. Kay’s Henchman
Alex Breaux, new to Stranger Things but experienced from his role as Dr. Brenner in The First Shadow on Broadway, portrays Lt. Robert Akers. Working alongside Dr. Kay, Akers is a key figure in tracking down Eleven in the Upside Down.
In the opening episodes, Akers is captured by Eleven and Hopper (David Harbour), allowing Eleven to delve into his mind to uncover information about Dr. Kay’s lab. Breaux praised his experience working with Linda Hamilton, describing her as “so hardcore on camera… and then offstage, she’s the softest, gooiest person, giving everyone the warmest hug.”
What Fans Can Expect from Stranger Things Season 5
Volume 1 of Season 5 sets up the high-stakes final battle between Eleven, her friends, and Vecna, promising thrilling confrontations both in Hawkins and the Upside Down. With new characters, unexpected twists, and intense character arcs, the season continues to expand the Stranger Things universe while delivering the suspense fans have come to expect.
Volume 2 is set to release on December 25, 2025, and Volume 3 will conclude the series, marking the end of an era for Netflix’s hit sci-fi series.
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