Stranger Things season 2 premiered only 5 months ago, but loyal fans of the series are already eager for the next batch of episodes. Thankfully, Netflix understands. While season 3 isn’t necessarily coming back to our screens any time soon, over the recent weeks, Netflix has been releasing a steady stream of info about what viewers can expect from season 3 to help tide them over until it premieres.
Last week, the streaming service announced three new characters would be joining the story of strange events. Stranger Things season 3 will include characters Mayor Larry Kline, Bruce, and Patricia Brown. All three characters are adults. The announcement left open the question of whether or not any new additions would be made to the band of children at the heart of the show.
Soon after, Variety reported that there would indeed be a new young cast member for Stranger Things. Maya Hawke, known for her role on BBC’s latest adaptation of Little Women and also the daughter of famous actors Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, has been cast as a new lead character in season 3. On Twitter, Netflix announced the casting news and described Hawke’s character. The actress will play Robin, an “alternative weirdo” who is Hawkins’ newest resident.
Robin is new here and she’s “alternative.” We love a weirdo and a new resident. Welcome to Hawkins, Maya Hawke. pic.twitter.com/ngdm9j6A3K
— Stranger Things (@Stranger_Things) March 2, 2018
Netflix also announced via Twitter that viewers can expect more of the fan-favorite character of season 2, Lucas’ younger sister, Erica. Erica’s actress Priah Ferguson has been promoted from a guest star to a recurring role, meaning Lucas can expect more hilarious jabs from his little sister come season 3.
If your life aspiration is to get dragged by @priahferguson it’s your lucky day. Erica just became a recurring character on Stranger Things 3 and I can’t cope. pic.twitter.com/7ydpSrdWmz
— Strong Black Lead (@strongblacklead) March 2, 2018
While headlines last month suggested that showrunners and Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer were leaving Stranger Things after season 3, Netflix immediately denied the rumors, assuring fans that the Duffer brothers were not going anywhere and would stick to working on their hugely popular series on any future seasons.
Stranger Things season 3 is expected to hit Netflix some time in 2019.