The ‘Stranger Things’ Broadway prequel is making its way to Netflix
Stranger Things, the breakout hit on Netflix, officially pulled down its curtains in 2025. But over the course of a decade, the series has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, expanding its footprint across merchandise, spin-offs, comic books, and even a Broadway show recounting the origins of the show’s iconic villain.
While fans were already keeping their eyes out for Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, scheduled to release next in March, those who couldn’t make it to a Broadway or West End performance of Stranger Things: The First Shadow, there’s good news for you.
According to an exclusive Collider report, Netflix will be professionally filming Stranger Things: The First Shadow for a future release. Although a release date hasn’t been announced, a week of performances has been reportedly cancelled from February 10th to February 14th to facilitate filming.
The performance is expected to feature the Tony Award-winning production’s original cast, including Louis McCartney, Gabrielle Nevaeh, and Alex Breaux. Earlier, Collider reported that the play would be filmed late last year.
For those unaware, Stranger Things: The First Shadow revisits the origin story of Henry Creel Jr, the psychokinetic resident of Hawkins, Indiana, who eventually evolves into the ultimate big bad of the series, Vecna. As his powers develop with each passing day, teenage Henry becomes unusually intrigued and influenced by a malevolent entity from another dimension.
A teenage Jim Hopper and Joyce Byers investigate the unnatural happenings, while Dr Martin Brenner of the Hawkins National Laboratory becomes increasingly curious about Henry’s powers. Meanwhile, as Henry experiences puppy love, he struggles all the more to control and grasp his powers before they consume him entirely.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow connects the dots on the origin of Henry’s powers to his father’s occupation aboard the USS Eldridge, the Navy ship that was allegedly part of the paranormal “Philadelphia Experiment” during World War II.
Directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin from a story by Kate Trefry, the Duffer Brothers, and Jack Thorne, Stranger Things: The First Shadow debuted in London’s West End in 2023. It eventually came to Broadway in 2025, winning Tony Awards for its scenic design, lighting and sound, alongside a special award dedicated to its special effects.
Now that Netflix is warming up for a filmed version of the iconic play, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, you need to buckle up, too. As for the release date? Do stay tuned for further updates in the future.