Matt and Ross Duffer on 'Stranger Things' Final Season: "We're Not Going to Tell the Story with These Characters Anymore"

Brothers Matt and Ross Duffer, creators of the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things," recently wrapped production on its final season and are now facing a mix of emotions.

Mixed Emotions on Wrapping Production

"It was definitely sad," said Ross Duffer. "We're not going to tell the story with these characters anymore, with that crew or those actors. We were all exhausted, but at the same time, we all had to take some time to mourn the loss of it."

Reflecting on the Journey

The Duffers will accept the Variety Showrunner Award at the SCAD TVfest to commemorate their work. "We don't usually get these kind of things, so we're very honored this is happening," said Matt Duffer.

Immediate Focus on Post-Production

Despite the emotions, the brothers are diving into post-production, a significant undertaking that will occupy the majority of their year. "Right now, we're just cutting all the visual effects sequences for the show so they can get started on those," added Matt.

Release Date Uncertainty

The exact release date for the final season of "Stranger Things" remains undetermined. "A lot of it hasn't been decided, in terms of exactly the release dates and cadence," said Matt. "We're getting on a call in about a couple weeks about it. I just know it was very important for us and Netflix that we get it out this year. But even that is quite the push."

Working Expeditiously

The Duffers acknowledge the time elapsed since the previous season and are working diligently to complete the final chapter. "Even Season 4, we cut that so tight," said Ross. "We were dropping in visual effects shots the day after the launch! So hopefully we'll be a little more on schedule this year."

Anticipation for Another Cultural Moment

In a nod to the unexpected success of Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" in Season 4, the Duffers speculate on the possibility of another viral sensation in Season 5. "You can't really manufacture it," said Matt. "But that is one of the fun things about putting it out. I'm sure that will happen again."

Returning to Georgia

The Duffers have spent the past decade dividing their time between Los Angeles and Atlanta for the production of "Stranger Things." The return to Georgia for the award ceremony holds special significance. "It's been sort of a second home for us," said Ross. "The crew has been incredible. The city itself has just meant a lot to us."

Contemplating the Future

After the "Stranger Things" finale, the Duffers anticipate a period of reflection. "It's been nine years of our lives just telling this one story," said Ross. "So there's certainly some anxiety of what's next. But I'm sure they will be."