Netflix Series

Netflix Reveals Title of New Stranger Things Animated Series: Tales From ’85’

April 24, 2025

Netflix Reveals Title of New Stranger Things Animated Series: Tales From ’85’

Netflix has officially revealed the title of its upcoming animated series set in the Stranger Things universe: Stranger Things: Tales From ’85. This announcement, made on April 23, 2025, marks a significant expansion of the beloved series.

The behind-the-scenes story of Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 is an exciting addition to the Stranger Things universe, marking the first animated series to be produced as part of the franchise. Here’s a look at the development and creative journey of the series:

The Inspiration for the Series:

Nostalgia and Love for Cartoons: The Duffer Brothers, who created Stranger Things, have been vocal about their deep love for the animated shows of their childhood, especially the Saturday morning cartoons. The idea for an animated version of Stranger Things grew from this nostalgia. They envisioned a series that could channel the essence of those cartoons while staying true to the Stranger Things universe.
Expanding the Universe: While Stranger Things had already explored the world of Hawkins and the Upside Down through live-action storytelling, the animation format provided a new opportunity to further expand the universe. The idea was to introduce different stories from the 1980s, with a focus on the iconic year 1985, the setting of Stranger Things Season 3, and offer new perspectives on beloved characters and events.

The Creative Team Behind the Show:

The Duffer Brothers: As the creators and executive producers, Matt and Ross Duffer were heavily involved in the creation of Tales From ’85. Their goal was to stay faithful to the tone and atmosphere that fans love while experimenting with a different storytelling format. The Duffer Brothers are also known for their work on Stranger Things, which blends sci-fi, horror, and heartfelt nostalgia. The animation offers them the chance to explore even more fantastical elements in the universe.
Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen: Known for their work on Stranger Things as well, Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen are also executive producers of the animated series. Levy, in particular, has been involved in various aspects of Stranger Things since the early days of its development and directed several episodes of the show. They’ve been instrumental in keeping the series’ tone intact while also expanding the storytelling possibilities.
Flying Bark Productions: This animation studio, based in Australia, is known for creating high-quality animated content. Their involvement allows the series to have the visual style needed to bring the Stranger Things world to life in a new way. The Duffer Brothers have praised Flying Bark’s ability to maintain the essence of Stranger Things while adding a fresh, animated perspective.

The Setting:

1985 and Hawkins: The series is set in 1985, which ties directly into Stranger Things Season 3. This period is critical to the show’s timeline and acts as a pivotal year for the characters and the events that unfold in Hawkins. The Duffer Brothers wanted the animated series to explore other aspects of this time, offering more stories from Hawkins, possibly with a focus on different characters and events that didn’t make it into the live-action series.
Anthology Format: It’s expected that Tales From ’85 may adopt an anthology format, meaning each episode could explore a different storyline within the same universe. This format allows for a variety of stories, including deeper dives into side characters and new supernatural encounters within the Stranger Things world.

Tone and Style:

Saturday Morning Cartoons: The Duffer Brothers have emphasized that they wanted the series to feel like the cartoons they watched as kids. This could mean a blend of adventure, humor, and lightheartedness alongside darker, more serious elements that tie back to the core Stranger Things themes.
Animation as a Tool for Fantasy: The animation format will allow the creators to take full advantage of fantasy and sci-fi elements in ways that would be more difficult or costly to execute in live-action. Expect to see a more whimsical side of the Stranger Things universe, but still with the mystery, horror, and thrills that made the original series so popular.

The Anticipation:

Fans’ Excitement: Fans of Stranger Things are eagerly awaiting this animated spin-off as it expands on the universe they’ve already come to love. The show’s connection to 1985, a significant year in the series’ timeline, and its promise of new stories is a major draw.
The Future of the Franchise: Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 represents a new creative direction for the Stranger Things franchise, offering fans a chance to experience the world of Hawkins in a different medium. It also opens the door for more animated content and potentially other spin-offs that could explore untold stories.

Potential Main Cast (Voice Roles)

Millie Bobby Brown – Eleven (Jane Ives)

Eleven, known for her telekinetic powers and mysterious link to the Upside Down, has been a central figure in the Stranger Things saga. If she returns in the animated series, she’ll likely continue to play a major role in uncovering supernatural threats.

2.Finn Wolfhard – Mike Wheeler

Mike, the thoughtful leader of the core group of kids and Eleven’s closest companion, could return to explore more of his adventures in Hawkins during 1985.

3. Winona Ryder – Joyce Byers

Joyce, the resilient and emotionally strong mother of Will and Jonathan, has played a key part in unraveling Hawkins’ dark secrets. She could take on a similarly important role in the animated stories.

4.David Harbour – Jim Hopper

Hopper, the rough-around-the-edges but deeply caring Hawkins sheriff, may appear in animated form, potentially continuing his battle against the sinister forces from the Upside Down.

5.Gaten Matarazzo – Dustin Henderson

Dustin, loved for his wit and tech-savvy nature, has always brought heart and humor to the team. His voice could bring a lot of energy to the animated series.

6.Caleb McLaughlin – Lucas Sinclair

Lucas is known for his bravery and loyalty. Given the show’s 1985 setting, there’s a strong chance he’ll be featured in stories that expand on his experiences during that time.

7.Natalia Dyer – Nancy Wheeler

As a determined truth-seeker and aspiring journalist, Nancy could be central to uncovering new mysteries in Hawkins in animated form.

8.Charlie Heaton – Jonathan Byers

Jonathan, known for his quiet strength and protective instincts, could return as a steadying presence in the background or even take part in new adventures tied to his family and friends.

What’s Next?

While Netflix has not yet announced a release date for Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, the series is highly anticipated by fans eager to explore more of the Stranger Things universe. More details, including trailers and episode information, will be shared as they emerge.

Watch the Trailer:-