Not many series in recent times have become such a phenomenon as Stranger Things. This Netflix show, created by the Duffer Brothers, boasts a worldwide fan base that keeps growing every day. Its first season was released in 2016, and this July saw the premiere of its fourth season, which was divided in two parts. Its fifth and, per The Hollywood Reporter, final season is expected to release in 2024, and even though there is still a long way to go, fans are already discussing all over social media the wildest theories regarding the series finale.
Stranger Things' enormous success can be attributed to many factors, as it is a production that has been critically acclaimed, among many things, for its plot, direction, performances, and outstanding atmosphere, set in the 80s, right down to the smallest detail. Largely responsible for the popularity of the show was the cast, packed with both rising and established stars, all of whom fit together to perfection bringing to life a group of characters worshipped by millions. And even though the cast was established from the get-go, featuring Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour, Winona Ryder and Finn Wolfhard, among others, other characters have been added over the seasons and have deeply resonated with the audience, such as Max (Sadie Sink) and her brother Billy (Dacre Montgomery), Bob (Sean Astin), Robin (Maya Hawke), and even Dustin's girlfriend, Suzie (Gabriella Pizzolo). Of course, there is one character in particular who was introduced in season four and has quickly conquered the audience's heart: Eddie Munson. Here, we look back at some of the reasons that made Joseph Quinn's character a fan favorite.
Mastering an Iconic Look
Throughout its seasons, Stranger Things has introduced many characters with very distinctive 80s fashion styles, but none like Eddie. This character's addition was a mouthful of fresh air, a new thing to admire, quite different from other characters. Eddie embodies the metalhead culture of the 80s, from his frizzy hair to his ripped jeans. It's no wonder that such a unique style would immediately appeal to the audience, and when crafting Eddie's aesthetic, there was nothing left to chance. To bring Eddie to life, per Netflix Tudum, the styling team drew inspiration from many heavy metal bands, particularly Iron Maiden and Venom. However, apart from having an iconic and distinctive style in the show, Eddie's character is so much more than just his looks, which he has proven throughout the episodes of the fourth season.
A Misfit With a Huge Heart
The growth of Eddie's character is one of the most surprising and unexpected ones in Stranger Things, which is another thing that took the audience by surprise. From his very first scene, Eddie is introduced as a showman, considered a freak by the rest of the Hawkins High students, but he enjoys it. He seems like a pretty intimidating person from the get-go, so much so that Dustin and Mike are afraid to confront him about Lucas not being able to join the Hellfire's campaign that night. Yet, as the audience gradually gets to know Eddie, they can appreciate that he actually has a noble heart, which is why his friends both love and admire him. Furthermore, just by analyzing his relationship with Dustin, for whom he became a role model, one can see how pure the character is. And if there is one thing he has taught the audience throughout his journey, it is that heroes can come from the most unexpected places.
Finally, Somebody Who is Actually Scared in Hawkins
Given the elements that made the character a fan favorite, this is presumably a minor detail, yet it still makes him relatable. Eleven and her friends, as well as the adults on the show, have dealt with the most horrific creatures throughout Stranger Things, putting their lives on the line time and time again with no hesitation whatsoever. While that adds to the show's emotional rush, it doesn't really jibe with what any other human being would likely do. Eddie, on the other hand, has an entirely different reaction: upon witnessing Chrissy being murdered by Vecna, his first instinct is to run and hide. Over the course of the series and when faced with each of the dreadful events the group must deal with, Eddie is the only one who is afraid and hesitates as to whether they should really be endangering their own lives. Yet, he still ends up taking the risk, because even though he is scared, he is driven by bravery and the affection he has for others.
A Genius Trapped in a Broken System
Eddie is a teenager who struggles at school, yet he remains optimistic that 1986 is going to be his graduation year. Yet, as we know, he is a very well-read and bright character, who often references literary pieces, as well as a great storyteller with endless creativity. Based on those characteristics, he should not be a troubled student at school at all. However, his struggles probably stem exclusively from his eccentric personality, proving once again how, oftentimes, the school system fails those children and teenagers who do not fit in with the expectations that are placed on them.
One Heroic Death and a Sense of Injustice
Over the course of Stranger Things season four, Eddie struggles with feeling like a coward for running away when Chrissy was murdered. He convinced himself that he is someone who keeps running away from problems, and that he is not — nor ever will be — a hero by any means, downplaying what this whole situation engenders in him. Towards the end of the season, Eddie decided to follow his heart and, after much running away, he turned into a hero during the battle against Vecna, specifically the Demobats, which unfortunately ended fatally for him. And yet, he still managed to shed the great burden that his own prejudices were exerting on him during one of the most heartbreaking scenes of the show. Eddie could have saved himself, but he decided to stay and fight for his people. Still, his death was surrounded by a halo of injustice, as Hawkins residents do not know his true story, and in spite of his tremendous sacrifice, they still think of him as a murderer and a member of a satanic cult. Hopefully, the series' fifth and final season brings this character the acknowledgement and apologies that he deserves.