Not much is known about Stranger Things season 5, but I’m hoping that the conclusion of the popular Netflix show will bring back the Demogorgon’s first victim: Barbara Holland. Although Barbara (Shannon Purser) wasn’t a main character in the show, her death in episode 3, “Holly Jolly,” had a major impact on her best friend Nancy Wheeler. In fact, her sudden death contributed to the larger mystery surrounding Hawkins National Laboratory in season 2. There is currently no release date for Stranger Things season 5, but it is believed that it will debut sometime in 2025.

A photo of the main Stranger Things cast was uploaded to the show’s official Instagram in January, announcing that production for the final season had begun. The Stranger Things Instagram also revealed that filming was halfway through as of July 3. This post included a group picture of the cast and crew. Notably, Purser is absent from both of these shots, suggesting her lack of involvement in the show’s final season. However, I believe that season 5 will bring back Barb because of how important she is to Nancy’s story.

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