5 Most Unexpected ‘Stranger Things’ Fan Theories

Vecna and Eleven

One of the wildest theories gaining momentum suggests that Vecna, also known as Henry Creel or 001, might secretly be Eleven’s biological father. Fans noticed the eerie “Star Wars” vibe and argue that Dr. Brenner’s shady experiments raise a lot of unanswered questions. While the show introduced Eleven’s mother, Terry Ives, her father has never been identified. Some believe Brenner could have used Henry’s blood or DNA to create enhanced children, possibly through artificial insemination.

Will Can Control the Upside Down

A fan theory gaining serious traction suggests that Will Byers isn’t just connected to the Upside Down, he might actually be able to control it. Ever since Season 1, Will has shown a sensitivity to the alternate dimension that no other character shares. From sensing creatures before they appear, to feeling the Mind Flayer’s presence long after being rescued, fans argue these are signs of a deeper bond. Some speculate that Will may have been “marked” during his time in the Upside Down, giving him abilities similar to Vecna’s, especially since both experienced intense trauma while trapped in alternate realities.

The Entire Series Is One Big Dungeons & Dragons Game

Another long-running fan theory claims that every creature, battle, disappearance, and twist in Stranger Things has been part of an elaborate, years-long Dungeons & Dragons campaign imagined by Mike, Will, Lucas, and Dustin. Since the show began with the boys’ DnD session, fans argue the entire story might circle back to that moment. The Demogorgon, Vecna, the Mind Flayer; all share names with DnD lore.

Will Died the Day He Disappeared

This bittersweet and unsettling fan theory claims that Will Byers actually died on the day he first vanished into the Upside Down. Everything viewers have watched since, according to this idea, is simply Mike Wheeler’s imagined world; a coping mechanism built from overwhelming grief. While creative, the theory seems unlikely, especially since the Duffer brothers have promised a satisfying, fan-approved ending. But the emotional punch of a story born from Mike's trauma is exactly why the idea keeps resurfacing.

Karen Wheeler Is More Important Than Anyone Realizes Dragons Game

Some viewers believe Karen Wheeler may be far more central to the story than the series has let on. A Reddit theory points out that major events seem to revolve around her family; Will Byers disappears while with Mike, Barb dies while with Nancy, and Karen nearly becomes entangled with Billy, who later falls under Vecna’s influence. Nancy is also targeted by Vecna, and he shows her visions of Hawkins’ future. While Karen herself hasn’t been attacked, the pattern suggests Vecna’s path repeatedly crosses with her orbit. Fans think she may unknowingly be a key piece of the final season.