The stars of 'Stranger Things,' ranked by success

The Stars of "Stranger Things," Ranked by Success

In July 2016, Netflix released a new show blending '80s nostalgia from films like The Goonies and Steven Spielberg classics with cutting-edge special effects and a fresh cast of talented young actors. That show, Stranger Things, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, catapulting its previously unknown child actors into the spotlight.

Some cast members have leveraged this success into wider careers. Millie Bobby Brown, Sadie Sink, and Joe Keery have expanded into other franchises, music, and even theatre, with Brown receiving a Tony nomination. Others have opted for a lower profile, focusing on indie films or education.

To determine the most successful child star from Stranger Things, we examined post-show careers, social media presence, side projects outside acting, and overall fame.

Notable Career Paths

Erica Sinclair

Priah Ferguson, who portrays Lucas Sinclair's witty younger sister Erica, stands out as the youngest main cast member at 19 years old.

Summary
"The cast of unknown kids turned into A-listers almost overnight, with varying degrees of success outside the show."

Overall, the success of the "Stranger Things" cast varies widely, with some leveraging their fame into diverse creative fields while others prioritize personal growth and education.

Author's summary: The "Stranger Things" child actors have achieved differing levels of success post-show, from major careers in entertainment to low-profile pursuits.

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Business Insider Business Insider — 2025-11-01