Stranger Things Season 5 Opening Scene Reveals Will Byers' 1983 Encounter
At Netflix TUDUM on November 6, 2025, fans were treated to the first five minutes of Stranger Things Season 5. The event, held at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood and livestreamed starting at 5:00 PM PT, finally unveiled the chilling opening sequence of the series’ final season.
The preview centers on Will Byers and reveals what happened to him immediately after his 1983 abduction by the Demogorgon. The 12-year-old is seen lying in the Upside Down forest, quietly singing “Should I Stay Or Should I Go” in his sleep.
Will’s Terrifying Encounter in the Upside Down
Will wakes abruptly, terrified by the approach of the Demogorgon. Armed with a gun, he fires at the creature but to no avail. Forced to flee, he climbs a tree with the creature in pursuit. While attempting to jump to another tree, Will falls and loses consciousness.
Meeting Vecna
The Demogorgon drags him to a sinister place where Vecna appears, as terrifying as always. Tentacles seize Will and push him against a wall, tightening their grip.
“The spine-chilling video made it clear that it will surpass everyone’s expectations in terms of brutality.”
This intense and haunting opening promises a darker, more brutal chapter for the beloved series.
Author’s summary: The opening of Stranger Things Season 5 unveils Will Byers’ harrowing 1983 abduction, setting a brutal and chilling tone for the final season.