Return to Hawkins: ‘Stranger Things: Tales from ’85’ Animated Series Unveils Cast

Stranger Things fans, rejoice! Netflix has unveiled the first look and voice cast for Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, an animated series bridging the gap between seasons 2 and 3. Set in the harsh winter of 1985, this epic animated adventure promises to deliver new monsters, paranormal mysteries, and unlimited storytelling possibilities that live-action can’t achieve.

Stranger Things: A New Way to Experience Hawkins

Announced on Stranger Things Day—the anniversary of Will Byers’ disappearance—this animated series represents a bold new direction for the beloved franchise. Showrunners Matt and Ross Duffer revealed this was one of their first ideas when exploring the expanded Stranger Things universe, designed to evoke the nostalgic feeling of classic ’80s cartoons.

“With animation, there are no limits,” the Duffers explained. “Eric and his team can go wild.” This creative freedom allows Flying Bark Productions to craft visually stunning sequences and paranormal encounters that push beyond live-action boundaries.

Stranger Things Tales from ’85

Meet the New Voice Cast

While the original live-action cast won’t reprise their roles, Netflix has assembled talented voice actors to bring Hawkins’ heroes to life:

Main Characters:

• Brooklyn Davey Norstedt as Eleven (WeCrashed)
• Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Max (The Monkey King)
• Luca Diaz as Mike (Erin & Aaron)
• EJ Williams as Lucas (The Wonder Years)
• Braxton Quinney as Dustin
• Ben Plessala as Will (The Sea Beast, Castlevania: Nocturne)
• Brett Gipson as Hopper (Knights of Badassdom)

The series also features special guest voices from Odessa A’zion (Hellraiser), Janeane Garofalo (Reality Bites), and Lou Diamond Phillips (Longmire).

What Makes This Different?

This isn’t just another spinoff—it’s a carefully crafted expansion of the Stranger Things mythology. The animated format allows creators to explore storylines and visual spectacles impossible in live-action, from gravity-defying supernatural battles to mind-bending Upside Down sequences.

Set during winter 1985, the series fills in the narrative gap fans have wondered about, showing what happened to our favorite characters between their encounter with the Mind Flayer and the events at Starcourt Mall.

For fans of animated series and the Stranger Things universe, this represents the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.

The ’80s Cartoon Aesthetic

Executive producer Eric Robles is leading the charge to capture authentic ’80s cartoon vibes while maintaining the show’s signature horror-tinged atmosphere. The behind-the-scenes featurette released on Netflix’s official channels showcases stunning work-in-progress art that balances colorful animation with dark, mysterious undertones.

What to Expect:

• New monsters terrorizing Hawkins
• Paranormal mysteries unique to the animated format
• Original storylines approved by the Duffers
• Classic characters in fresh adventures
• ’80s cartoon nostalgia with modern animation quality

For those following Netflix original series and genre entertainment, Tales from ’85 offers a unique way to extend your favorite show’s universe while waiting for Season 5’s conclusion.

Strategic Release Timing

While no exact date is confirmed, industry insiders expect Tales from ’85 to premiere in early 2026, strategically positioned to capitalize on momentum from Stranger Things Season 5. This timing keeps fans engaged with the franchise and introduces new audiences to Hawkins’ supernatural world.

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