The latest episode of Stranger Things season 5, released on December 25, 2023, brought significant developments regarding the character Will Byers and his feelings for Mike Wheeler. In a pivotal moment, Will, played by Noah Schnapp, confronted his friends about his sexuality during an intense encounter with the antagonist Vecna, portrayed by Jamie Campbell Bower.
During this emotional scene, Will shared with his friends, “I haven’t told any of you this because I don’t want you to see me differently, but the truth is I am different.” He expressed his desire to fit in and be like everyone else, ultimately revealing, “I just — I don’t like girls.” This revelation hinted at his feelings for Mike, played by Finn Wolfhard, but the extent of Mike’s understanding of Will’s emotions remained uncertain at that moment.
Creator Confirms Mike’s Awareness
Following the episode’s release, Ross Duffer, one of the show’s creators, clarified that Mike is indeed aware of Will’s crush. In an interview with People, Duffer stated, “That was the intent. Once Will is talking about Tammy and all that and his experience, it’s Mike — and his friends — all realizing and understanding now for the first time.” He elaborated that Mike, despite being somewhat oblivious over the years, begins to recognize what Will has been feeling.
Duffer added insight into Mike’s perspective, noting that he is beginning to grasp the emotional weight of Will’s journey of self-discovery. This narrative shift aims to portray Will’s growth and his courage to express his true self to those closest to him.
Will’s Journey Since Season 1
Since Stranger Things premiered in 2016, viewers have witnessed Will’s tumultuous journey, starting from his mysterious disappearance in Hawkins, Indiana. Initially introduced as a character who was largely absent from the action, he gradually emerged as a central figure in the series. His struggles to return to normalcy following his escape from the Upside Down have resonated with fans, especially as themes of identity and acceptance unfold.
Discussion around Will’s sexuality has been a recurring theme, particularly highlighted in season 3 when he confronted Mike during a heated argument. While fans have speculated about Will’s orientation, Schnapp previously expressed appreciation for the ambiguity surrounding his character. In a 2022 interview with Variety, he stated, “I think that’s the beauty of it, that it’s just up to the audience’s interpretation.”
Both Schnapp and his co-star Millie Bobby Brown have commended the show’s nuanced portrayal of Will’s character. Brown emphasized the importance of not labeling individuals too early in their journeys, stating, “So many kids out there don’t know, and that’s OK. That’s OK to not know. And that’s OK not to label things.”
As the final season of Stranger Things unfolds, it continues to explore complex themes of friendship, identity, and acceptance, resonating deeply with its audience. The series remains available for streaming on Netflix.
