Get Ready for a Retro Chiller! Netflix Announces 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85' Animated Spinoff

Hawkins, IN (Animated Edition) – Hold onto your walkie-talkies, "Stranger Things" fans! Netflix is sending us back to Hawkins, but with a fresh, animated twist. At the Annecy Film Festival on Wednesday, the streaming giant pulled back the curtain on "Stranger Things: Tales From '85," an exciting new animated spinoff that plunges us into the chilly winter of 1985.

This new series promises to offer a unique perspective on the beloved universe, blending classic nostalgia with cutting-edge animation.

A Mid-'80s Flashback, With a Fresh Face

According to Hollywood Reporter, "Stranger Things: Tales From ’85" is set to bridge the gap between Seasons 2 and 3 of the original live-action series. You'll be delighted to know that familiar faces from the beloved gang will be returning, but there's a thrilling new addition: meet Nikki, a fierce character rocking a mohawk and a no-nonsense attitude. She'll be joining forces with our favorite Hawkins crew to battle eerie monsters and unravel a fresh paranormal mystery that's shaken the quiet town.

Saturday Morning Nostalgia Meets Modern Animation Magic

Showrunner Eric Robles revealed the inspiration behind this animated adventure: classic Saturday morning cartoons like "Scooby-Doo," "Masters of the Universe," and "The Real Ghostbusters." While the spirit of those retro shows will clearly shine through, the visual style is anything but dated. Imagine the stunning animation you've seen in "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" and "Arcane," infused with that signature, spooky "Goosebumps"-style flair.

The team behind the visuals is equally impressive, with Meybis Ruiz Cruz leading the character designs. And for those who love a good scare, the creepy creatures – including menacing zombie pumpkins and a terrifying snow shark with razor-sharp teeth – are brought to life by the talented Carlos Huante.

The Familiar Minds Behind the Scenes

Fans will be pleased to know that the original masterminds behind "Stranger Things," the Duffer Brothers, are on board as executive producers through their production company, Upside Down Pictures. They're joined by a stellar team including Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen from 21 Laps, along with Hilary Leavitt and Eric Robles from Flying Bark Productions.

When Can We Dive Back In?

While an exact premiere date is still under wraps, Netflix has confirmed that "Stranger Things: Tales From ’85" is expected to arrive sometime in 2026.

In the meantime, the wait for more "Stranger Things" content won't be too long. The highly anticipated fifth and final season of the live-action series is rolling out in three parts later this year: Part 1 drops on November 26th, Part 2 arrives on Christmas Day, and the grand series finale is set for New Year’s Eve. Plenty to keep fans occupied until 1985 calls again!

Quick Look: Your Questions Answered

What exactly is 'Stranger Things: Tales From ’85'?

It's an exciting new animated spinoff of the popular "Stranger Things" series, with a story that fits neatly between the events of the original show's Seasons 2 and 3.

Will the familiar faces from the original series be in 'Tales From ’85'?

Absolutely! The animated series will feature the original characters you know and love, plus a brand-new addition: a mohawk-wearing character named Nikki.

When can we expect 'Stranger Things: Tales From ’85' to be released?

Netflix hasn't provided a precise date yet, but the show is currently slated for release sometime in 2026.