Netflix has officially announced an animated spinoff of its popular sci-fi series Stranger Things. Titled Stranger Things: Tales From '85, the new series was revealed during Netflix’s presentation at the Annecy Film Festival.
The animated show will be set in the winter of 1985, taking place between Seasons 2 and 3 of the original series. It promises a mix of nostalgic storytelling and fresh adventures featuring the core Hawkins gang. Joining them is a new character, Nikki — a mohawked rebel known for her sharp attitude. Together, they’ll face bizarre monsters in a brand-new paranormal mystery.
The series draws inspiration from classic Saturday morning cartoons such as Scooby-Doo and The Real Ghostbusters. At the same time, it will feature modern, high-quality animation similar to Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Arcane.
Character designs for the spinoff have been created by Meybis Ruiz Cruz. The show’s unique monsters, including zombie pumpkins and a snow shark, are the work of renowned creature designer Carlos Huante.
Produced by Stranger Things creators the Duffer Brothers under their Upside Down Pictures banner, the series also includes producers Shawn Levy, Dan Cohen, Hilary Leavitt, and Eric Robles from Flying Bark Productions. Netflix has confirmed that the animated spinoff is scheduled for release in 2026.
While fans eagerly await the animated series, excitement is also building for the much-anticipated fifth and final season of the live-action Stranger Things. Netflix has announced it will be released in three parts, beginning on November 26 and concluding on New Year's Eve.
With Tales From '85, Netflix aims to expand the Stranger Things universe while offering viewers a fresh, nostalgic, and visually striking adventure.
