Netflix Unveils First Look at Jonathan Byers’ 2026 Stranger Things Return

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Viewers are getting a sneak peek at Jonathan Byers‘ role in a new Stranger Things project. While the popular Netflix series, which became a global success over five seasons, wrapped up in December 2025, the story isn’t over. The Stranger Things world is continuing to grow, and a new installment featuring beloved characters is on the way.

As a movie critic, I recently checked out Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, and it’s a fun little animated detour into the world we already love. Think of it as a bridge between seasons two and three of the Netflix show, filling in some of the gaps. You’ll recognize a lot of the same faces – Will, Max, Eleven, Mike, Lucas, and Dustin are all here – though they’re voiced by a new cast. It’s a nice way to spend more time in Hawkins, even if it’s not quite the same without the original voice actors.

A new scene from the Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 short recently revealed that Jonathan Byers will be back, appearing alongside his brother Will.

Although Jonathan Byers wasn’t listed among the cast and characters for Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, a recent clip confirms Charlie Heaton’s character will appear. The actor providing Jonathan’s voice hasn’t been announced yet.

In this scene, Jonathan gives Will a mixtape he made, hoping Will will enjoy some new music. Throughout Stranger Things, the brothers often connect through their shared love of music, and this moment highlights that familiar bond.

Will rushes off to hang out with his friends, but Jonathan tells him to call if he’ll be out late, showing how much they care for each other like brothers on the show.

Here’s the mix I made for you, I finished it up last night. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy something other than The Clash for a change!

Will: “Thanks, I gotta go. The guys are waiting.”

Jonathan: “Mum said call if you’re gonna be [late].”

The full clip featuring Jonathan from Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 can be viewed below.

Jonathan’s character design in the animated Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 is very similar to how he looks in the live-action show. He wears the same blue jacket and plaid shirt, and his hair is styled just like actor Charlie Heaton’s in the series.

Throughout the main story of Stranger Things, Jonathan became known as a caring and protective older brother to Will and a source of support for their mother, Joyce. He developed a close bond with Nancy Wheeler while they worked together to find Will, and their friendship eventually turned into a romantic relationship that lasted for several seasons.

I’m so excited for more stories from Hawkins! Netflix announced that Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 is coming out on April 23, 2026, which is awesome because it’s not long after Stranger Things 5 finishes. I’ve heard the Duffer brothers, who created the original show, are overseeing this new animated series, and the voice cast is incredible – Jeremy Jordan, Odessa A’zion, Robert Englund, and Alysia Reiner are all going to be involved! I can’t wait to see what adventures they have in store.

How Important is Jonathan Byers in Stranger Things: Tales From ’85?

Since Jonathan hasn’t been featured in any of the promotional materials or discussed regarding the budget for Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, he’ll probably have a small part in the show.

The new animated series on Netflix includes familiar characters, but it primarily follows the adventures of the younger kids and the mystery they’re trying to solve. Unlike the original show, which had storylines for kids, teens, and adults, this series focuses on the kids’ perspective, with the older characters playing supporting roles when needed.

Because Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 is set before Season 3, it shows the very beginning of the romance between Jonathan and Nancy – after they’ve finally gotten together. The animated series could also explain how they ended up working as interns at the Hawkins Post, setting the stage for what happens in Season 3.

Alessandra Antonelli and Jeremy Jordan will voice the characters Nancy and Steve. With Jonathan also confirmed to be in the show, fans might finally see these three main characters interact again in Stranger Things: Tales From ’85.

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2026-04-21 05:36