Is Will still possessed by Vecna? Chilling Stranger Things fan theory explained

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The final episodes of Stranger Things 5 delivered a touching moment for Will Byers, but a popular new fan theory proposes there’s more to his story than meets the eye within the Byers family.

In the seventh episode of Stranger Things 5, Eleven rescues Will from Vecna. The insights they get from this rescue are crucial in helping them save Max’s life.

In Episode 8, Will explains that the monster, previously known as Henry Creel, hunts people by using their thoughts, memories, and secrets to gain control over them.

He chooses to share his true self by coming out during a heartfelt speech. However, one TikTok user thinks he might still be under Vecna’s control during this moment. Be warned: spoilers follow…

Will’s monologue hints at darker truth in Stranger Things 5

Will confides in his loved ones, explaining that he’s been hiding a part of himself. He admits he acted like everyone else simply because he wanted to fit in, wanting to be accepted just like his friends and family. He feels similar to them in most ways, but acknowledges he’s also unique.

We love our late-night D&D sessions, the cozy, familiar scent in Mike’s basement, bike rides to Melvald’s for milkshakes, and even getting a little lost in the woods…

TikTok user @elliefilm.s posted a video questioning a scene, saying it doesn’t quite fit. She points out that Melvald’s is a general store, not a milkshake shop, and Will’s mother actually works there, making the mistake in the scene unlikely.

WAIT THE WOODS THING I DIDNT EVEN THINK ABOUT THAT WTF HELLO

— chloe ˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆｡☆ ꩜ (@r4dvxz) December 29, 2025

Okay, so here’s what I’m getting: Melvald’s used to be a diner back in the 1950s, which is when Henry was around. It makes total sense now – why would Will bring up something that happened before he was even born?

As a fan, I was really struck by one point this TikToker made. They questioned why the show would have Will enjoy getting lost in the woods, especially considering that’s how his whole trauma began! It just doesn’t make sense that he’d ever find that fun, given everything he’s been through.

While this idea is interesting to consider, it doesn’t quite explain why characters readily accepted Melvald’s statement instead of questioning it. Plus, it could significantly weaken a pivotal moment in Stranger Things. Still, it raises some compelling points.

More evidence to suggest Will is still possessed by Vecna

Throughout Season 5 of Stranger Things, Vecna consistently emphasizes that he still needs “William” to act as his spy, wanting him to continue gathering information.

Right before Will reveals himself to the others, he asks Max detailed questions about how she managed to stay alive for so long inside Henry’s mind.

If Vecna is still influencing Will, this investigation makes logical sense. Vecna is likely trying to gather information to strengthen his control over the twelve children he’s holding captive in the Creel House, and this fits with that goal.

We’ll see if this theory holds up when the final episodes of Stranger Things are released on New Year’s Eve. In the meantime, you can explore details about the Season 5 soundtrack or check out our lists ranking the best characters and episodes from the show.

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2025-12-29 18:50