Netflix released first-look image of Maya Hawke (Robin) via Twitter, as well as, a promotional teaser for the next season of Stranger Things. At the end of the teaser it also hinted at a summer 2019 premiere date for the third season with, “Coming next summer.” The previous two seasons of the show aired in July 2016 and October 2017. In the teaser it also featured a new location for the series, Starcourt Mall.
According to Deadline, Hawke’s character, Robin, is described as an, “alternative girl who is equal parts sharp and playful. Bored with her mundane day job, she just wants a little excitement in her life… and gets more than she bargained for when she uncovers a dark secret in Hawkins.” In the picture featured in one of the the Twitter posts, she is alongside Steve (Joe Keery). Both of them are working behind the cash register at Scoops Ahoy, an ice cream shop in Starcourt Mall.
The teaser itself gives viewers a tour of the new location. Here are the tweets:
Hawke is a new series regular for the show. Lucas’ (Caleb McLaughlin) strong-willed little sister makes her return, except this time she brings with her a band of friends. Erica (Priah Ferguson) does not like sitting on the sidelines, so she goes off to a wild mission to save Hawkins from its new, dangerous, and unexpected threat.
At the end of season two, viewers had no idea what would happen to Steve in the future. Even though he is at the age to leave or college, his job at Ahoy Scoops does not exactly mean that he is staying in Hawkins. The third season is taking place during summer, so that means that this is taking place right before he leaves for college.
The importance of the mall could lead to some interesting questions. Stranger Things has used classic films are inspiration and references in the past. If that is the case with Starcourt Mall, they might be using it to foreshadow the events to come in season three. What past mall centered film could they be trying to make a reference to this time?