Ross Duffer debunks a major ‘Stranger Things’ fan theory
When Netflix released the titles of the first two episodes of Stranger Things Season 5, fans immediately began decoding them. Everywhere it was 1980s Hawkins all over again. And though all the episode titles were complete, there was one which left fans speculating. Episode two, cryptically titled ‘The Vanishing of…’, sent speculation spiralling among fans all over the world. Many believed it was a direct nod to season one’s The Vanishing of Will Byers. And this time, all signs pointed to Holly Wheeler.
But co-creator Ross Duffer has officially shut that theory down quite recently.
In a blink-and-miss Instagram story, Ross responded to the chatter with a cheeky caption: “The Vanishing of… (yeah yeah you think you know who blah blah) has by far the craziest cold open we’ve ever done.” It was a clear nod to the widespread speculation that ‘The Vanishing of…’ referred to Mike and Nancy’s younger sister. Some even believed that Nell Fisher, recently cast in season five, would be playing Holly in a more central role.
While he did not confirm who the title actually refers to, Ross’ tone suggests that the internet’s current favourite theory might be way off the mark. And considering the Duffer brothers’ love for narrative misdirection, it would not be surprising if the real twist is something no one has guessed yet.
In the same post, Ross also dropped a few important hints about the first two episodes. He confirmed that episode one, titled ‘The Crawl’, is “the most eventful premiere since Season 1”. For a show known for its dramatic opening scenes, that’s saying something.
The speculation around Holly Wheeler gained traction not just from the title format but also from the fact that her character has remained mostly in the background throughout the series. Fans pointed out that Holly has had eerie moments of awareness in past seasons of Stranger Things. Also, her presence around Vecna’s storyline could indicate a deeper role. However, if Ross’s caption is anything to go by, it is probably time to let that theory go.
Another rumour addressed this week was about the runtime of the episodes. Social media had been buzzing with claims that season five would feature multiple feature-length episodes. In fact, some even claimed up to three hours. Ross was quick to respond to that as well: “Not even close to accurate,” he wrote, clearing the air before expectations could spiral.
While Stranger Things season five remains under wraps, the Duffer brothers are clearly enjoying the fan theories. They have been having fun, occasionally stepping in to course-correct when things go too far off track.
So no, it is not Holly. It is (probably) not Eleven either. And if Ross Duffer has anything to do with it, we won’t know the real answer until that cold open hits and the screen goes dark… for one last time.