Stranger Things Season 5 Officially Has Me Worried About This Character

by

Warning: Spoilers ahead for Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 1.

As a huge fan of Stranger Things, I have to admit I’m really worried about Joyce Byers in the latest season. Even though it looks like she might be safe, the show loves to play with our expectations. Remember when everyone thought Eleven died at the end of season one? It turned out to be a clever trick, and I have a feeling the writers might be planning something similar again. I just hope Joyce makes it through okay!

The season 3 finale featured a seemingly tragic sacrifice by Hopper, but this was later revealed to be temporary in season 4 of Stranger Things. Thankfully, the first part of season 5 avoided another false death for Hopper, even though he wore an explosive vest as a safety precaution in episode 4.

Joyce Puts Herself In Serious Danger Twice In Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 1

©Netflix / Courtesy Everett Collection

Okay, so everyone’s hoping our favorite characters will all make it through the final season of Stranger Things. It’s easy to think the writers won’t kill anyone off, but honestly, I don’t see that happening. Looking at the first part of season 5, they didn’t really introduce any new, significant characters who could realistically be the one to make a big sacrifice. It feels like they’re setting the stage for some tough choices and, sadly, probably some heartbreaking losses among the characters we already know and love.

Previous seasons of the show each introduced a memorable new character – Bob Newby in season 2, Billy in season 3, and Eddie Munson in season 4. However, season 5 doesn’t feature a similar breakout star. Interestingly, a character who always seemed safe suddenly found themselves in extremely dangerous situations, facing two life-threatening traps in the first four episodes.

As a huge fan of the show, I always found it fascinating how Joyce Byers repeatedly put herself in incredible danger for her kids. Remember when that Demogorgon showed up in the barn? She just walked towards it, and it seemed like Will, without even realizing it, somehow managed to push the creature back – that was wild! Then, later, when Vecna went after Will at the military base, Joyce didn’t hesitate to rush in again, putting herself right in the path of danger to try and save him. It really highlights how far a mother will go.

Joyce’s Death Would Be Sad, But It Makes Sense For Stranger Things’ Ending

Vecna easily brushed Joyce aside, and she narrowly avoided being seriously hurt. Will’s connection to Vecna helped Joyce once, but she might not be so fortunate in the future, especially as the season progresses. Her death would actually fit the overall story well.

Joyce has always been fiercely protective of Will, so a heroic sacrifice where she dies defending him would feel true to her character. While incredibly sad, this event could be the catalyst Will needs to finally overcome Vecna, after years of being connected to him psychically. This means, despite appearances, this beloved character isn’t necessarily out of danger.

Read More

2025-11-30 16:10