The widely-watched finale of the hit Netflix series has left fans buzzing with theories and speculation. One particular idea, which has gained significant traction online, initially left a key cast member unimpressed. The Stranger Things star recently admitted that he initially thought the popular finale fan theory was “dumb”.
Caleb McLaughlin talks about Conformity Gate
Caleb McLaughlin, who played Lucas Sinclair in Stranger Things, has spoken out about a blockbuster finale speculation, after initially expressing scepticism and describing it as “dumb”. The actor has weighed in on the Conformity Gate theory, which sparked speculation about a potential extra episode following the dramatic series finale of Stranger Things.
The theory posited that Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower), the show’s formidable villain, had manipulated Eleven’s mind, rendering the epilogue an illusion, a clever ruse to keep viewers hooked. In reality, it was apophenia at play, with fans weaving intricate patterns from scattered threads of narrative.
“At first, I thought the ‘Conformity Gate’ theory was dumb,” McLaughlin told The Hollywood Reporter. “I get that people want to live in this optimistic place of, ‘Oh, we want more Stranger Things,’ but the show is done, guys. I was like, ‘Guys, it’s over. It’s been 10 years. We were full-on kids, and now we’re full-on adults, and we don’t need any more of us.’”
At first, McLaughlin dismissed the theory as misguided. However, he’s now convinced that fans were merely grappling with the inevitable end of a beloved series. Sharing his insights, he shed light on the creative vision of Ross and Matt Duffer, the masterminds behind Stranger Things. McLaughlin believes the Duffer Brothers prioritized leaving fans with the show’s signature optimism. This ensured the series concluded true to its core essence.
“We started off season one playing Dungeons & Dragons, and we ended just like that,” he said. “And Mike’s storytelling and writing ability [that’s rooted in D&D] is how the show should have ended.” The 24-year-old said the final scene, where the gang completes a Dungeons & Dragons campaign led by Mike, masterfully bookends the series. He believes that it brings the show to a satisfying close.
Originally written by Sibanee Gogoi on Mandatory.