Netflix animated 'stranger things' spinoff unveils first trailer
Hawkins, Indiana, is about to get a whole lot spookier – and animated. Netflix has dropped the first trailer for Stranger Things: Tales of the 85, a new animated series expanding the universe of the beloved sci-fi horror franchise, and it’s bringing a fresh wave of 80s-inspired chills.
A new threat surfaces in '85
The spinoff, arriving April 23, 2026, takes place between seasons two and three of the main series, offering a glimpse into a seemingly idyllic winter vacation for Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Max, and Will. But as the trailer reveals, peace in Hawkins is a fleeting illusion. A new, dangerous creature emerges from the Upside Down, threatening to disrupt their downtime. The series introduces Nikki Baxter, a new character who will join the core group in this perilous adventure.
The animation style leans heavily into the nostalgic aesthetic of the 80s, evoking a Saturday morning cartoon vibe while retaining the series’ signature blend of horror and heart. While the core cast of characters are present, Millie Bobby Brown and the original ensemble will not reprise their roles, with a new voice cast stepping in to portray Eleven and her friends. This marks a significant shift for the franchise, testing whether the established fanbase will embrace a different approach to storytelling.
The trailer’s tagline, “Hawkins. Winter of 1985. In a town full of secrets, heroes face new mysteries…and a new, strange threat. When these creatures emerge, game over,” encapsulates the escalating danger and stakes. The use of animation allows for potentially more surreal and visually striking depictions of the Upside Down, something that could prove creatively liberating for the series’ writers.
Beyond the familiar monster-hunting, Tales of the 85 hints at a deeper exploration of Hawkins’ history and the secrets buried beneath its seemingly quaint exterior. Whether this will enrich the overall narrative or dilute the impact of the main series remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Netflix is betting big on expanding the Stranger Things brand, and this animated spinoff is a key piece of that strategy.