“Stranger Things,” the iconic Netflix series that debuted in 2016, has captivated audiences with its blend of supernatural elements and nostalgic 80s charm. As the show has progressed, so have its beloved cast members, many of whom have grown up in the public eye. A recent video highlights the transformations of the main cast from their debut in 2016 to now in 2025.
Winona Ryder, who portrayed the determined Joyce Byers, was 44 years old at the show’s launch and is now 53, maintaining her significant presence in the entertainment industry. David Harbour, known for his role as the steadfast Jim Hopper, has also aged gracefully; he was 40 in 2016 and is now 49.
The younger cast members have undergone remarkable transformations as well. Finn Wolfhard and Gaten Matarazzo, who were just 13 when the series began, are now 22, continuing to pursue their acting careers with notable success. Caleb McLaughlin, who played Lucas Sinclair, and Noah Schnapp, known for his portrayal of Will Byers, have also grown from teens into young adults, now aged 23 and 20, respectively.
Other cast members, such as Natalia Dyer and Charlie Heaton, have transitioned from their early twenties to 30. Joe Keery, who became a fan favorite as Steve Harrington, has similarly aged from 23 to 32, while Maya Hawke, who joined the series later, is now 26.
The transformations extend to veteran actors like Matthew Modine and Paul Reiser. Modine, who played Dr. Martin Brenner, has gone from 56 to 65, while Reiser has aged from 60 to 68.
As “Stranger Things” continues to capture the hearts of fans, the evolution of its cast serves as a reminder of the passage of time and the enduring impact of this groundbreaking series. With the fifth season on the horizon, viewers are eager to see how these characters will further develop alongside their actors.