Beyond Stranger Things: The Duffer Brothers’ Next Big Projects
The Duffer Brothers Expand Their Creative Universe
While fans eagerly await the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, creators Ross and Matt Duffer are already setting their sights on new and exciting projects. At a recent Netflix presentation, the brothers revealed that they will be executive producing two new shows, The Boroughs and Something Very Bad is Going to Happen, both set to premiere in 2026. These upcoming series promise to capture the same essence that made Stranger Things a global phenomenon—stories about ordinary people encountering the extraordinary. Ross Duffer described the new projects as being at the "core" of what makes Stranger Things so compelling, suggesting that fans can expect more of the supernatural, heartfelt, and thrilling storytelling they’ve grown to love.
Matt Duffer further elaborated on The Boroughs, calling it the project that "probably shares the most DNA with Stranger Things." The show follows a group of misfits battling an otherworldly evil, a familiar premise to fans of the Duffers’ iconic series. However, The Boroughs introduces a fresh twist by setting the story in a retirement community. "This time, our misfits are a little on the older side—they ride golf carts, not bikes," Matt Duffer quipped, drawing a humorous comparison to the young characters of Stranger Things who famously navigate Hawkins, Indiana, on their bicycles. This unique setting promises to bring a new perspective to the Duffers’ signature blend of nostalgia, humor, and suspense.
A Star-Studded Lineup for The Boroughs
The Duffers also shared some exciting casting news for The Boroughs, with a talented ensemble that includes Alfred Molina, Geena Davis, Alfre Woodard, and Bill Pullman. These seasoned actors bring a wealth of experience and depth to the project, and their involvement has already generated buzz among fans and critics alike. While the Duffers kept details about the plot under wraps, the combination of their storytelling prowess and such a stellar cast suggests that The Boroughs could be another breakout hit for Netflix.
Reflections on Stranger Things and Its Emotional Conclusion
Although the Duffers are looking ahead to their next projects, they took time to reflect on the bittersweet journey of bringing Stranger Things to a close. Filming for the fifth and final season took an entire year, with the team capturing over 650 hours of footage. "It’s like eight blockbuster movies," Ross Duffer remarked, emphasizing the scale and ambition of the season. Matt Duffer added that the experience was "super intense and emotional" for both the crew and the cast, many of whom have been part of the show since its debut in 2016. The Duffers also shared a touching anecdote about Millie Bobbie Brown, who has grown up with the show. Netflix’s chief content officer, Bela Bajaria, revealed that she recently attended Brown’s wedding, a reminder of how much time has passed since the series first premiered.
The Legacy of Stranger Things Lives On
While the fifth season of Stranger Things marks the end of this chapter, the Duffers assured fans that the story of the Upside Down is far from over. "There are more Stranger Things stories to tell and in the works," Matt Duffer teased, hinting at potential spin-offs or new adventures set within the same universe. The brothers emphasized that they are deeply involved in these future projects, leaving no doubt that the world of Stranger Things will continue to evolve and captivate audiences in new ways.
Updates on Another Netflix Hit: Squid Game
The Netflix presentation also delivered exciting news for fans of another gripping series, Squid Game. The South Korean thriller, which debuted its second season last month, will return for a third and final season on June 27. The announcement was met with enthusiastic anticipation, as viewers eagerly await the conclusion of the story that has kept them on the edge of their seats. Squid Game has become a cultural phenomenon, and its final season is expected to be one of the most-watched events of the year.
A Bright Future for Netflix and Its Creators
As Netflix continues to unveil its 2025 slate, it’s clear that the streaming giant is committed to delivering bold, imaginative, and emotionally resonant storytelling. With the Duffer Brothers at the helm of new projects and hits like Stranger Things and Squid Game leaving their mark, the future of entertainment looks brighter than ever. Fans of Stranger Things can take comfort in knowing that the Duffers are already hard at work on their next creative endeavors, ensuring that the magic of their storytelling will endure for years to come. Whether it’s the misfit retirees of The Boroughs or the continued adventures in the Upside Down, one thing is certain: the Duffer Brothers are just getting started.
