‘Stranger Things’ Stars: Then and Now

The release of ‘Stranger Things’ on Netflix introduced the world to a talented group of actors who quickly became household names. Viewers watched these performers grow up on screen as they battled supernatural threats in the fictional town of Hawkins. The cast members have leveraged their massive success to launch music careers and star in major blockbuster films. This list explores the career trajectories of the key actors from their early days to their current status in Hollywood.

Millie Bobby Brown

Millie Bobby Brown became a global sensation for her role as the telekinetic Eleven. She has since starred in ‘Enola Holmes’ and ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ while launching her own production company. Her beauty brand Florence by Mills has also seen massive commercial success. She continues to expand her portfolio as both an actress and a producer. Brown remains one of the most influential young stars in Hollywood today.

Finn Wolfhard

Finn Wolfhard captured hearts as the loyal leader Mike Wheeler in the hit sci-fi series. He expanded his filmography with prominent roles in ‘It’ and ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’. The actor also explores his musical talents as the lead singer for the indie band The Aubreys. Wolfhard has successfully transitioned from child star to a versatile young actor. His directing debut shows he has ambitions behind the camera as well.

Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder made a major comeback as the determined mother Joyce Byers. She was already an icon from films like ‘Beetlejuice’ and ‘Heathers’ before joining the Netflix phenomenon. Her portrayal of a frantic mother searching for her lost son earned her critical acclaim. Ryder continues to be a pivotal part of the ensemble while maintaining her status as a film legend. She recently reprised her role as Lydia Deetz in ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’.

David Harbour

David Harbour found mainstream fame as the grumpy yet lovable police chief Jim Hopper. He previously appeared in supporting roles in films like ‘Revolutionary Road’ and ‘Quantum of Solace’. The actor joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Red Guardian in ‘Black Widow’. Harbour also headlined the violent holiday action comedy ‘Violent Night’. His career has skyrocketed since he first donned the sheriff uniform in Hawkins.

Sadie Sink

Sadie Sink joined the cast in the second season as the tough skateboarder Max Mayfield. She gained widespread recognition for her emotional performance in the short film ‘All Too Well’. Sink starred in the critically acclaimed drama ‘The Whale’ with Brendan Fraser. Her fashion modeling career has led to partnerships with major luxury brands. She quickly became an integral part of the core group in Hawkins.

Noah Schnapp

Noah Schnapp played the central character Will Byers whose disappearance kickstarted the entire series. He was arguably the youngest cast member when the show first premiered in 2016. Schnapp has balanced his acting career with his studies at the University of Pennsylvania. He also launched a sustainable snack brand called TBH to promote eco-friendly consumption. His performance in the later seasons highlighted his dramatic range and emotional depth.

Gaten Matarazzo

Gaten Matarazzo became an instant fan favorite as the intelligent and witty Dustin Henderson. He began his career on Broadway in productions like ‘Les Misérables’. The actor hosts the prank show ‘Prank Encounters’ on Netflix. Matarazzo returned to his stage roots with a role in the Tony-winning musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. He continues to advocate for cleidocranial dysplasia awareness.

Caleb McLaughlin

Caleb McLaughlin brought energy and skepticism to the group as Lucas Sinclair. He started his career on the stage as Young Simba in ‘The Lion King’ on Broadway. McLaughlin showcased his dramatic acting chops in the film ‘Concrete Cowboy’ alongside Idris Elba. The actor has also released original music and explores various creative avenues. He has evolved into a stylish and talented young performer.

Joe Keery

Joe Keery transformed Steve Harrington from a high school bully into a protective babysitter figure. He releases psychedelic pop music under the moniker Djo. Keery starred in the viral action comedy ‘Free Guy’ opposite Ryan Reynolds. His character arc is frequently cited as one of the best in modern television history. He recently appeared in the latest season of ‘Fargo’.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke became an immediate breakout star as the sarcastic Robin Buckley in season three. She is the daughter of famous actors Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke. The actress has released multiple folk-rock albums as a singer-songwriter. She had a memorable role in ‘Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood’ by Quentin Tarantino. Hawke balances her music career with her increasing demand in Hollywood.

Natalia Dyer

Natalia Dyer portrays the investigative journalist and older sister Nancy Wheeler. She had an early role in ‘Hannah Montana: The Movie’ before landing her breakout part. Dyer starred in the comedy ‘Yes, God, Yes’ which showcased her ability to lead a film. She continues to select diverse roles in independent cinema. Her character Nancy remains a driving force in uncovering the mysteries of the Upside Down.

Charlie Heaton

Charlie Heaton plays the quiet outsider and photographer Jonathan Byers. He began his career as a musician before transitioning into acting roles. Heaton starred in the superhero horror film ‘The New Mutants’ as Cannonball. The British actor recently appeared in the biographical drama ‘The Elephant Man’ on stage. He maintains a steady presence in both film and television projects.

Let us know which cast member’s transformation surprised you the most in the comments.