While the original members of the Stranger Things Season 4 cast were indeed children when the series first premiered in 2016, significant transformations have occurred in their lives since then. Millie Bobby Brown has ventured into the world of literature as a novelist, Sadie Sink has graced the screen in an award-winning film, and Finn Wolfhard has not only acted but also taken on the roles of writer and director in his own movie. Their maturation is so pronounced that portraying Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max as convincing high schoolers in Season 5 of Netflix’s popular sci-fi adventure might require some Hollywood magic, or perhaps even the assistance of artificial intelligence. Let’s explore the remarkable evolution of these actors from the early years of the show to the present.
Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven
Millie Bobby Brown, who rose to prominence at the tender age of 12 through her iconic portrayal of Eleven, the telekinetic, and waffle-enthusiast in Stranger Things, has since become an internationally recognized face and a household name. Her portrayal of Eleven, a character with extraordinary extrasensory abilities coupled with an endearing sensitivity and shyness, resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Beyond the realm of Hawkins, Brown has ventured into major roles in blockbuster films such as Godzilla: King of Monsters and Godzilla vs. Kong. Additionally, she showcased her versatility in Enola Holmes and its highly anticipated sequel.
Now, at the age of 19, Millie Bobby Brown’s career continues to soar, with upcoming projects that involve The Electric State, Damsel, The Thing About Jellyfish, and The Girls I’ve Been. Notably, Brown has embarked on a journey of higher education, pursuing online studies at Purdue University since 2022. In the realm of personal life, she has been engaged to Jake Bongiovi, the son of iconic singer Jon Bon Jovi, since 2023.
Adding another feather to her cap, Brown, beyond her acting prowess, has displayed literary talent with the release of her bestselling debut novel, Nineteen Steps. It’s worth noting that the novel, a literary success, was ghostwritten by Kathleen McGurl, further expanding Brown’s influence beyond the screen. As Millie Bobby Brown gracefully transitions from a child star to a multifaceted young adult, her journey continues to captivate and inspire audiences globally.
Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler
At the age of 13, Finn Wolfhard embarked on his journey as an actor, assuming the role of Mike Wheeler, the charismatic leader of the group, from the very inception of Stranger Things. As time has progressed, so too has Wolfhard’s career, seamlessly transitioning between the mystical occurrences in Hawkins, Indiana, and a diverse array of roles in both television and cinema. His versatility and talent have enabled him to explore various facets of the entertainment industry.
Noteworthy among his cinematic endeavors are his standout performances in blockbuster films such as It and its sequel, It Chapter Two, where he captivated audiences with his on-screen presence beyond the confines of Hawkins. In Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Finn Wolfhard continued to leave an indelible mark, showcasing his ability to navigate different genres seamlessly.
Adding another layer to his artistic portfolio, Wolfhard delved into the realm of creative storytelling with the horror comedy Hell of a Summer, a project in which he not only starred but also co-wrote, co-directed, and produced. This multifaceted involvement underscores his commitment not only to acting, but also to contributing creatively to the projects he undertakes.
Now, at the age of 21, Finn Wolfhard stands as a testament to his growth as an actor and a creator, evolving from the young Mike Wheeler into a multifaceted artist. His journey, marked by a balance of supernatural adventures and artistic exploration, continues to captivate audiences as he navigates the diverse landscape of the entertainment industry
Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson
At the age of 14, Gaten Matarazzo assumed the role of the endearing super-nerd, Dustin Henderson, captivating audiences since Season 1 of Stranger Things. Throughout the series, Dustin has encountered various tragedies, from losing his feline companion to the ravenous Demogorgon to witnessing the demise of his friend Eddie Munson, portrayed by Joseph Quinn, at the hands of a horde of Demobats in the treacherous Upside Down.
Beyond his iconic portrayal of Dustin, Gaten Matarazzo has showcased his versatile talent in several other projects. His contributions to the animated realm include voice acting roles in The Angry Birds Movie 2 and My Father’s Dragon, demonstrating his ability to breathe life into characters through his distinctive vocal skills. In the film Honor Society, Matarazzo took on a starring role, adding another dimension to his diverse acting portfolio.
The future promises more auditory delights from Matarazzo, who is set to lend his voice to the animated TV show Ghostbusters: Ecto Force. This project holds a delightful coincidence, as Matarazzo’s character in Stranger Things memorably donned a Ghostbusters costume for Halloween, creating a charming connection between his real-life endeavors and the iconic moments on-screen.
Now, at the age of 21, Gaten Matarazzo stands as a seasoned actor with a trajectory that extends beyond his early portrayal of Dustin Henderson. His ability to navigate the complexities of his character and seamlessly transition into various roles underscores his growth as an artist. As Matarazzo continues to embark on new projects, his journey in the entertainment industry unfolds, promising further enchantment for audiences eager to witness his evolving talents.
Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair
We got to the other Stranger Things Season 4 Cast member. At the age of 14, Caleb McLaughlin, renowned for his portrayal of Lucas Sinclair on Stranger Things, delved into a multitude of cinematic and television projects during his breaks from the iconic series. As the years progressed, so did McLaughlin’s career, marked by a diverse array of roles that showcased his acting prowess.
Among his noteworthy cinematic endeavors are films such as Concrete Cowboy, Shooting Stars, and The Book of Clarence. These roles underscore McLaughlin’s ability to tackle varied characters and contribute to the vibrant landscape of storytelling on the big screen. Additionally, he has graced the small screen with his presence in acclaimed series like Ultra City Smiths, Summer Camp Island, and The Boys Presents: Diabolical, further solidifying his versatility as an actor.
Looking ahead, McLaughlin is set to captivate audiences in the upcoming film The Deliverance, promising another compelling addition to his expanding repertoire. Beyond his achievements in acting, McLaughlin has embraced his passion for music. Having commenced his journey on Broadway as a child, he is making strides in the music industry. Notably, he has released two music videos for his singles, “Neighborhood” and “Soul Travel,” showcasing his talent not only on screen but also in the realm of music.
Now, at the age of 22, Caleb McLaughlin stands as a multifaceted artist, evolving from his early days on Stranger Things. His commitment to exploring diverse roles in both acting and music reflects his dedication to artistic growth. As McLaughlin continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, audiences can anticipate further artistic endeavors that promise to captivate and inspire.
Noah Schnapp as Will Byers
At the tender age of 12, Noah Schnapp, renowned for his portrayal of Will Byers on the hit series Stranger Things, embodied a character who, as the brother of Jonathan and son of Joyce, faced unrelenting challenges. Since the inception of Season 1, Will has grappled with the traumatic experiences of the Upside Down, serving as a central figure in the series. However, as Season 5 unfolds, it appears that Will Byers may finally be granted the opportunity to emerge as a hero and play a pivotal role in saving the world, marking a significant turning point for the character.
Beyond his compelling role in Stranger Things, Schnapp has made his mark in the world of cinema with notable performances in movies such as Abe and Hubie Halloween. These roles showcase his versatility as an actor, transcending the boundaries of his iconic character in the series.
Venturing beyond the realm of entertainment, Schnapp embarked on an academic journey at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 2022, demonstrating his commitment to education and personal growth. Additionally,