First Look: Stranger Things Spin-Off Drops Debut Poster Ahead of Premiere

Netflix just dropped the first poster for its animated Stranger Things spin-off, so yes, Hawkins is getting even weirder — in cartoon form — before we say goodbye to the main show.

So what is Stranger Things: Tales from '85?

It is a new animated series set squarely in 1985, slotted between seasons 2 and 3 of the flagship show. Creator Eric Robles is steering this one, and the pitch is basically: return to familiar Hawkins hangouts, then ruin everyone’s day with fresh nightmares. A mysterious force shakes up the town, and new monsters crawl in from the Upside Down — including mutated pumpkins (a nasty echo of season 2’s rot) and aggressive, vine-like organisms that do not look friendly.

First poster, teaser timing

Netflix revealed the poster on its official X account and said a teaser lands Monday. They even captioned the post with the phrase written upside down — a cute on-brand flex if you live for little ARG-ish teases.

The look and vibe

Netflix is calling this one an 'entry-level Stranger Things,' which sounds like a gateway for younger or first-time viewers while still letting longtime fans poke around Hawkins lore. Visually, think bigger heads and sculpted, puppet-like faces, lit up with bold neon colors. The art nods to 80s Saturday-morning staples like The Real Ghostbusters. Creature maestro Carlos Huante contributed designs, bringing a Lovecraft-leaning creep factor — but within a family-friendly lane.

'With animation, there’s really no limits... Eric and his team can just go wild... and they have.'

That’s Ross Duffer teeing up exactly how far this one might push things. Robles, for his part, is telling fans to grab a flashlight and a backpack because he thinks the ride is going to be a blast.

Cast

• Brooklyn Davey Norstedt as Eleven
• Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Max
• Luca Diaz as Mike
• Elisha 'EJ' Williams as Lucas
• Braxton Quinney as Dustin
• Ben Plessala as Will
• Brett Gipson as Hopper
• Odessa A'zion, Janeane Garofalo, and Lou Diamond Phillips in undisclosed roles

Who’s making it

Eric Robles develops the series and executive produces alongside the Duffer Brothers, Shawn Levy, Dan Cohen, and Hilary Leavitt. Animation is by Flying Bark Productions.

When it arrives

Netflix says Tales from '85 premieres in 2026. The poster is out now, and that first teaser hits Monday. No exact date beyond the year yet, but the messaging is clear: this is a colorful, creature-forward detour through Hawkins that bridges eras and opens the door for new fans — while giving the animators permission to get weird in ways live action can’t.