Steve And Dustin’s Friendship Will Be Tested In Stranger Things Season 5

The final season of Stranger Things will really challenge the strong bond between its friends. While the show is known for its creepy mysteries, terrifying villains, and 80s vibe, it’s the characters themselves – a unique and endearing group – that truly make Stranger Things special and stand out from other shows like it.

As the cast of Stranger Things has expanded, the writers have been able to create some surprising and enjoyable character combinations. The friendship between Steve Harrington (Joe Keery) and Dustin Henderson (Gaten Matarazzo) has become a particular fan favorite. It began in season 2 when Dustin asked Steve for help finding his lost pet Demogorgon.

Ever since their memorable walk in the woods, Dustin and Steve have become a close pair. However, it appears things might get difficult for them in the fifth and final season of Stranger Things. In the December 2025 issue of Empire Magazine, Stranger Things co-creator Ross Duffer discussed what’s ahead for Dustin’s character, according to Empire.

Ross Duffer explains that Dustin is having a hard time coping with Eddie Munson’s death – the popular character from season 4 known for his guitar playing. Grief-stricken, Dustin feels pulled between focusing on the current mission and honoring Eddie’s memory by fighting for what he believed in. This internal conflict creates tension in his friendship with Steve Harrington.

You know, as a big fan, I always thought Dustin was the heart of the group. Duffer explained that when he’s not able to be that person—the one who keeps everyone united and having fun—it really throws everything off balance. It’s like the whole dynamic falls apart without him being able to do his thing.

It’s natural that Steve and Dustin will grow apart, especially after losing Eddie. This distance will likely be tough for both of them, and also for viewers. Eddie, like Steve, became a positive role model for Dustin, so Dustin’s sadness will be complex. This makes him particularly vulnerable to Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower), the main villain of Stranger Things.

Just like Max dealt with after her stepbrother Billy’s death, Dustin is likely to struggle with intense guilt. Seeing Eddie die in his arms was a deeply traumatic experience, and he’ll probably be haunted by it.

Eddie sacrificed himself to stay in the Upside Down, but what if Vecna manipulates Dustin into thinking he’s responsible? Could that be why Dustin is acting out – trying to honor Eddie’s memory by fighting for what he believed in, even if it means pushing Steve away because he mistakenly thinks he’s protecting him?

The Duffer brothers haven’t shared many details about what’s in store for Dustin and Steve in season 5. However, the teaser trailer shows they’ll be teaming up again. It’s hard to say what will happen, but fans are hoping Steve and Dustin will make it through the final season okay.

I’m so excited! Netflix just announced that the first part of Stranger Things season 5 will be here on November 26th. We won’t have to wait too long for the rest, either – part 2 drops on December 25th, and then the very last episode arrives on December 31st. It’s going to be an amazing holiday season for Stranger Things fans!

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2025-10-23 19:58