The final episode of the sci-fi horror series Stranger Things was released, concluding its run which began in 2016. The two-hour finale, titled "Chapter Eight: The Rightside Up," was released at 01:00 GMT and briefly caused server strain for Netflix. Some viewers reported encountering error messages during initial attempts to access the episode. Screenings of the finale were held in cinemas across the US and Canada, with cast members attending several events.
Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the series stars Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, and David Harbour. The finale depicted large-scale conflict sequences and incorporated elements from all five seasons, providing resolutions for the characters.
Prior to the release, fan discussions online included theories about potential plot developments and identified perceived inconsistencies within the series' narrative, such as an anachronistic brand logo appearing on a character's jacket. Social media platforms hosted numerous theories regarding the series' conclusion, some of which aligned with the events depicted in the final episode.
The finale featured a confrontation involving the characters against Vecna and the Mind Flayer, which ultimately led to their defeat and the prevention of a dimensional merge. The character Kali (Eight) was shown to die. The fate of Eleven was presented with ambiguity, allowing for interpretations such as her sacrificing herself or simulating her death to escape. An epilogue, set 18 months after the primary events, depicted Hopper and Joyce becoming engaged and other characters discussing their adult lives. The conclusion left some narrative elements unresolved.
Cinema screenings of the finale attracted fans, with many discussing plot predictions. Attendees in Los Angeles viewed the episode at The Egyptian Theatre. Netflix distributed merchandise, including T-shirts and figurines, at these events. Some fans dressed as characters or Demogorgons. Attendees Liv and Alina Valdez described the ending as an "emotional roller-coaster."