The End of an Era: What’s Next After Stranger Things?
After nearly a decade of captivating audiences, Stranger Things is drawing to a close. While spin-offs and even the intriguing ‘Conformity Gate’ theory (suggesting Vecna’s grand illusion) promise lingering mysteries, the core saga that began in 2016 is largely complete. This groundbreaking series not only solidified Netflix’s dominance in original programming but also introduced a generation of child stars who have grown up before our eyes. Its masterful blend of 80s nostalgia, chilling horror, and small-town supernatural weirdness has been immensely influential. If you’re yearning for that unique ‘Stranger Things’ vibe, fear not! We’ve curated a list of past and present shows that, in various ways, echo its distinctive charm and dread.
Dive into the Supernatural: Our Top Picks
From (2022 – )
Imagine a town from which no one can ever leave. Not metaphorically, but literally. This is the chilling premise of From, where residents and visitors find themselves inexplicably trapped. Much like the later seasons of Stranger Things, characters are besieged by malevolent creatures emerging from the woods, preying on anyone caught outside after dark. The Matthews family discovers this terrifying reality firsthand when their RV journey takes an unexpected turn, trapping them alongside the local sheriff (Harold Perrineau). These aren’t mindless monsters; they’re cunning, sadistic, and capable of gruesome acts, adding a supernatural twist to the ‘small towns ain’t what they seem’ trope.
Where to stream: MGM+
I Am Not Okay With This (2020)
Starring Sophia Lillis, known for her role as Beverly Marsh in the It movies, I Am Not Okay With This introduces us to Sydney Novak, a 17-year-old navigating the complexities of small-town life. Grappling with her father’s recent suicide, a burgeoning crush on her best friend, and constant arguments with her mother, Sydney’s life takes an extraordinary turn when she discovers she possesses powers triggered by her intense emotions. This offbeat coming-of-age story, tragically canceled after just one season, sees Lillis deliver a compelling performance as a teenager struggling to control both her life and her burgeoning abilities.
Where to stream: Netflix
Pluribus (2025 – )
From the brilliant mind of Breaking Bad‘s Vince Gilligan comes Pluribus, a sci-fi apocalypse series that, despite its tonal departure, offers a uniquely strange and thought-provoking experience. Rhea Seehorn shines as Carol Sturka, a curmudgeonly fantasy romance author who becomes one of only 13 individuals immune to ‘the Joining’—an alien virus transforming the rest of humanity into a perpetually content, peaceful hive mind. Carol defiantly clings to her individuality and even her misery, fighting to restore humanity to its flawed, yet authentic, state. Thrilling, heartbreaking, and surprisingly funny, Pluribus delves deep into what it truly means to be human and the sacrifices we might make for change.
Where to stream: Apple TV+
Haven (2010 – 2015)
Based on Stephen King’s short story “The Colorado Kid,” Haven
masterfully captures the ‘weird stuff goes down in a small town’ essence. While teens aren’t the primary focus, the supernatural mysteries abound. Emily Rose stars as FBI Special Agent Audrey Parker, sent to the titular town of Haven, Maine, on a seemingly routine case. She quickly becomes embroiled in “the Troubles,” a series of harmful supernatural events that have plagued the town throughout its history. What begins as a supernatural case-of-the-week format evolves into a larger, more intricate mystery as Audrey uncovers her own deep, inexplicable connection to Haven and its recurring phenomena. Lucas Bryant and Eric Balfour co-star in this engaging series.
Where to stream:
Peacock, Prime Video
Dark (2017 – 2020)
This acclaimed German import begins as a compelling mystery surrounding a missing child and escalates into a breathtakingly complex, time-travel-driven narrative across its three seasons. Dark meticulously weaves together dark family secrets spanning multiple generations, creating an incredibly atmospheric and visually striking experience. Featuring an ensemble cast of teens and adults whose fates are intricately intertwined, the series shares Stranger Things‘ interest in the 1980s, albeit with a significantly darker and more philosophical tone. If you appreciate intricate plots and a profound sense of dread, Dark is an absolute must-watch.
Where to stream: Netflix
Fear Street (2021 – )
While technically a film trilogy, the Fear Street series functions as a cohesive miniseries, masterfully tapping into the retro-nostalgia horror vibe that defines Stranger Things
. Set in the cursed town of Shadyside, the films span different eras (1994, 1978, and 1666), revealing the origins of a centuries-old curse that plagues its inhabitants. With a strong focus on teenage protagonists battling supernatural forces and uncovering dark historical secrets,
Fear Street delivers a thrilling blend of slasher horror, supernatural mystery, and genuine emotional depth, making it a perfect binge for fans of Hawkins’ own brand of terror.
Where to stream: Netflix
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