Stranger Things has a knack for introducing intriguing characters, but not all of them get the chance to reach their full potential before meeting an untimely end. While some of these characters had memorable moments, it’s hard not to wonder what could have been if they had been given more time to develop and impact the story. Here are five Stranger Things characters who were killed off too soon, leaving us to ponder their wasted potential.
5. Alexei
Alexei (Alec Utgoff) made his debut in Stranger Things season 3 as a Soviet scientist, only to switch sides and be killed later in the same season. Alexei’s charm lay in his willingness to change allegiances to survive, and his casual attitude towards the whole ordeal. His arc, however, was cut tragically short.
Alexei’s infectious enthusiasm for life’s simple pleasures endeared him to viewers, and his scientific expertise could have been invaluable to the Americans in their ongoing battle against the Upside Down. Moreover, his budding friendship with Murray had the potential to blossom into something truly special, had he not met his untimely end.
4. Chrissy Cunningham
Chrissy Cunningham (Grace Van Dien) appeared in Stranger Things season 4 episode 1, only to be killed off in the same episode. Despite her brief appearance, Chrissy was a grounded and likable character, and her sudden death left viewers shocked. Had she been given a longer arc, her demise could have carried a much greater emotional impact.
Chrissy’s death also served as a precursor to Billy’s, and a longer arc for her character could have heightened the emotional stakes for both characters. Ultimately, Chrissy was given far too much depth for such a fleeting appearance.
3. Bob Newby
Bob Newby (Sean Astin) was introduced in Stranger Things season 2 as Joyce Byers’ (Winona Ryder) boyfriend. Although his death was already a heart-wrenching moment, it’s worth noting that the show’s creators initially planned to kill him off even earlier. Bob’s endearing nature is what saved him from an earlier demise, but he still didn’t make it out of season 2 alive.
Bob’s selflessness and willingness to put others before himself could have had a significant impact on the events of Stranger Things season 4. His heroic nature might have even saved Hawkins from further devastation.
2. Barbara Holland
Barb (Shannon Purser) was a supporting character in Stranger Things season 1, whose loyalty to her best friend Nancy Wheeler (Natalia Dyer) ultimately led to her death. Barb’s relatable struggles with popularity and friendship resonated with viewers, making her demise all the more shocking.
Had Barb been given a longer arc, her presence could have significantly altered the course of Nancy’s life. By keeping Barb around, many of the unfortunate events that befell Nancy might have been avoided.
1. Eddie Munson
Eddie Munson (Joseph Quinn) was introduced in Stranger Things season 4, only to be killed off in the same season. Eddie’s relatable nature and deep introspection when alone made him a fan favorite, and his untimely death left viewers clamoring for more.
Eddie’s character had much to teach about self-assurance and finding one’s place in the world. His potential to continue imparting these lessons through a beloved character was cut short by his premature death.
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