Stranger Things Season 5 Part 2 Finale Explained: Who Went Their Separate Ways? Did Will Come Out?
Season 5 of Stranger Things returned with its second set of episodes, featuring a significant breakup, potential deaths, and Will finally discussing his sexuality.
The second half of the show’s concluding season debuted on Thursday, December 25, showcasing Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) attempting to dominate the Upside Down. Max (Sadie Sink) and Holly (Nell Fisher) pose challenges for him, and he soon discovers that Will (Noah Schnapp) can access his mind as well.
Fortunately, Max manages to return to Hawkins, but Holly gets trapped further as all the kids — with the exception of Derek (Jake Connelly) — turn against her. The remaining group must figure out how to defeat the main villain while uncovering more about his past.
Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) realizes that the Upside Down serves as a bridge between the real world and a realm filled with exotic matter, dubbed The Abyss. Vecna’s ultimate goal is to merge both worlds, which they must prevent.
As they prepare for battle, El (Millie Bobby Brown) is persuaded by Kali (Linnea Berthelsen) that they can’t save the world and return. Kali advises Eleven to remain behind and disappear for her own safety.
Meanwhile, Will acknowledges the need to confront his greatest fear before facing Vecna again. He comes out to his loved ones as gay, receiving their support as they gear up for one final fight.
Scroll down for a summary of where each character ended up — including their survival status — in part 2 of season 5:
Joyce Byers
After uncovering her son’s powers, Joyce (Winona Ryder) encourages Will to embrace them. This leads him to assist Holly, although it briefly ensnares him. With support from her boyfriend Hopper (David Harbour), Joyce is there when Will returns and stands by him during his coming out moment.
Jim Hopper
Hopper and Eleven start off on different pages when she discovers he plans to assist her but not take care of himself. Their disagreement intensifies when he witnesses Kali influencing Eleven … more on this later.
Mike Wheeler
The second half of the final season illustrates Mike being there when needed. He shares a conversation with Eleven about their future, where he stays optimistic while she is unsure of her safety post-Vecna. Mike is also present when Will comes out, mentioning his crush on a close friend, yet it’s unclear whether Mike realizes it’s about him.
Eleven
Returning to Kali’s conversation with Eleven, part 2 reveals Kali warning Eleven that she will always be pursued by people like Dr. Kay (Linda Hamilton). This new villain uses Kali’s blood to create “weapons” from children with psychokinetic and telepathic abilities. To achieve this, Dr. Kay injects pregnant women with Kali’s blood but ultimately requires Eleven’s blood, created through Henry’s.
Dustin Henderson
After an emotional confrontation, Dustin and Steve (Joe Keery) resolve their issues. Steve criticizes Eddie (Joseph Quinn) for his heroism, but Dustin acknowledges he can’t afford to lose Steve the same way. He also uncovers that exotic matter envelops the Upside Down, concealing the existence of the Abyss above it.
Lucas Sinclair
As Max returns to reality, Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) plays a vital role in supporting her. He carries her body to ensure Vecna doesn’t reach her first, standing by her side as she adjusts.
Nancy Wheeler
Natalia Dyer’s Nancy finally connects with Jonathan (Charlie Heaton) about their stagnant relationship. In a candid moment, she admits her uncertainty, leading to their subtle breakup.
Jonathan Byers
In a similar vein, Jonathan confides in Nancy, sharing everything he’s kept hidden, including his proposal plans. Although they don’t get engaged, they part ways, and Jonathan supports Will during his coming out.
Will Byers
A conversation with Vecna leads Will to realize he contributed to the creation of the Upside Down while his mind was possessed. Feeling guilty for his role, he becomes more determined to ensure Vecna loses his powers.
Before this confrontation, Vecna shows Will a bleak future where his loved ones reject him for who he is. This inspires him to confront his fear and come out, where he is met with love and support.
Max Mayfield
After two years in a trance, Max manages to return to the real world. She initially spends time with Holly, trying to convince her of a possible escape from the Upside Down. Unfortunately, Vecna’s hold is too strong, leaving Max guilty. However, she reunites with Lucas and is seen in a wheelchair as she regains her strength.
Steve Harrington
Keery’s Steve survives as much of part 2 focuses on his relationship with Dustin. He also contemplates a plan set in motion at the conclusion.
Robin Buckley
In this new batch of episodes, Robin (Maya Hawke) has the opportunity to reveal the truth to Vickie (Amybeth McNulty).
Erica Sinclair
Thanks to Erica (Priah Ferguson), Mr. Clarke (Randy Havens) finally becomes aware of the events unfolding in Hawkins.
Henry Creel, One, and Vecna
Vecna’s backstory is unveiled as Max and Holly witness him in a cave trying to help a man. The stranger shoots Henry as a child, provoking Henry to retaliate fatally. The rest of the second part displays Vecna attempting to regain control while Holly, Max, and Will complicate his plans. The season concludes with Vecna conducting a séance, taking control of all the children.
