The stars of 'Stranger Things,' ranked by success

The Stars of "Stranger Things," Ranked by Success

In July 2016, Netflix released a show blending '80s nostalgia from "The Goonies" and Steven Spielberg films with cutting-edge special effects and a fresh cast of young talent. That show was "Stranger Things," which quickly turned unknown kids into A-list stars overnight.

While some cast members have leveraged their fame into broader success, others have kept a lower profile. Millie Bobby Brown, Sadie Sink, and Joe Keery expanded their careers with franchises, music, and even a Tony Award nomination. Meanwhile, other actors focus primarily on indie films or education.

Evaluating Success

We assessed post-show resumes, social media presence, side projects outside acting, and overall fame to determine which "Stranger Things" child star is most successful.

Notable Cast Members

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As excitement builds for the season five trailer, fans dissect the rising careers of these young actors who made "Stranger Things" a cultural phenomenon.

Author's summary: The "Stranger Things" kids rose from unknowns to stars with varied paths—some pursue wide-ranging careers, others choose privacy and education while the show remains a lasting cultural icon.

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Business Insider Business Insider — 2025-11-01