Sorry Stranger Things fans, this still isn't the rumored 9th episode of Season 5 but it's probably the next best thing. As reported by Collider, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, the Broadway production based on the hit series, will be filmed by Netflix for release on the streamer.

Performances will be closed off to the public from Tuesday February 10 to Saturday February 14 to accommodate filming. While we don't have any details about a release date, it has been confirmed that the original cast will be featured including Louis McCartney (Silent Roar), T.R. Knight (Grey's Anatomy), Gabrielle Nevaeh (That Girl Lay Lay), and Alex Breaux (Robert Akers in the Stranger Things Series, but Dr. Brenner in the stage production).

Stranger Things: The First Shadow serves as a prequel to the Stranger Things series. Set in 1959, it focuses on a young Henry Creel Jr. and his descent into becoming the evil entity Vecna. Remember in Stranger Things Season 5 when we see that flashback of young Henry finding that mysterious rock in the cave? This play helps provide that missing context as well as context to other mysteries from Henry's past. 

The show itself has been very praised by fans and critics alike, and even picked up several Tony awards last year including best set design, lighting, sound, and special effects. Despite this, not every Stranger Things fan has been pleased about this show. For anyone outside of New York City, travel, hotel, and a ticket is an expensive paywall. Many have been asking for the play to be recorded so fans everywhere could enjoy it. Some even feel that it shouldn't have been a play at all. 

I still think that the First Shadow should’ve been a miniseries released on Netflix in between the seasons https://t.co/mbFLl7Hg1J

— Stranger Universe (@struniverse) December 6, 2025

In December 2025, Stranger Things: The First Shadow had a bit of a viral moment when Stranger Things series actor Jamie Campbell Bower reprised his role of Henry Creel for the stage production. His one-night-only appearance was unnannounced and caused a stir amongst Stranger Things fans who were eagerly waiting for the final episode to air at that point. Talk about cross promotion. 

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Given the significance of his appearance, fans are hoping that evening's show will be featured in the final recorded version. There's clearly high-definition footage. Why not utilize it?

Broadway performances are not recorded or released that often, especially ones with stage production as high as this one. Even if you're over Stranger Things or still upset that it wasn't a miniseries, we think we could all take a moment to appreciate the spectacle of live theater production.