Netflix Announces Stranger Things Prequel Series Set in the 1950s

Netflix has officially confirmed that the universe of the popular science fiction franchise "Stranger Things" will continue to expand with a brand-new prequel series set in the 1950s. The announcement was made during the annual global fan celebration known as Stranger Things Day, bringing exciting news to followers of the saga nearly a year after the premiere of the show's final season.

The upcoming project, titled "Other Worlds: A Stranger Things Adventure," is slated for release in 2028. Chronologically, the narrative will take place before the events of the original television series as well as before the stage play "Stranger Things: The First Shadow." Creators Matt and Ross Duffer stated that this is a project they have wanted to bring to life for several years.

Production for the prequel will primarily take place in the state of New Mexico. British filmmaker Joe Wright, whose extensive cinematic credits include the 2005 film "Pride and Prejudice," has been selected to direct the first three episodes of the series.

Kate Trefry will serve as the showrunner, writer, and executive producer for the project. Trefry's involvement maintains creative continuity within the franchise, having worked on the original series writing team since its second season and contributed to the theatrical adaptation. The Duffer brothers will act as co-creators and executive producers through their company, Upside Down Pictures, alongside Shawn Levy and 21 Laps Entertainment.

Netflix executives highlighted that the creative team's return will help craft a distinct identity for the new story while keeping it tied to the international phenomenon. Platform executive Jinny Howe noted that the production will introduce a different dimension to the franchise, featuring fresh protagonists, novel mysteries, and a distinct period setting that broadens the established narrative map.

According to the creators, the prequel will retain the core essence of the original saga while introducing fresh characters, new antagonists, and a renewed atmosphere. Trefry also added that the plot will dive deeper into some of the remaining open questions within the fictional universe's mythology.

Since its debut in 2016, "Stranger Things" has grown from a science fiction project into one of Netflix's largest cultural properties, amassing more than 1.2 billion streams and over 70 international awards. The franchise has already expanded beyond television screens into theater, animation, literature, and immersive experiences.