Jonathan Byers might be the next to die, and that could be Stranger Things’ biggest misstep yet.
The newly released Stranger Things Season 5 trailer teases big missions, powerful alliances, and the long-awaited final battle with Vecna. It also drops something darker: a visual hint that Jonathan Byers is doomed.
From Nancy washing blood off her hands to Dustin sobbing in Steve’s arms, the signs are there.
Jonathan appears in earlier scenes, comforting Nancy and working with the group, but vanishes from the moments that scream loss.
That absence speaks volumes.
And while the season promises answers, action, and Eleven’s evolved powers, this theory has fans split.
Killing Jonathan might add tension, but it also risks betraying years of character development.
Especially when Season 4 already did him dirty.
Why Losing Jonathan Might Be the Price Stranger Things Has to Pay
Jonathan has long been the show’s unsung support system.
He’s protected Will, fought beside Nancy, and kept his family together when everything else was falling apart.
His death would finally show that Stranger Things isn’t afraid to take risks.
Too many fake-outs have dulled the impact.
Hopper’s ‘death’ during Stranger Things Season 3 was quickly reversed. Others have danced with danger, but walked away clean.
If Jonathan dies trying to save Will, it could echo back to Stranger Things Season 1: an emotionally charged, narratively complete moment.
One that proves the final season is ready to stop playing it safe.
Killing Jonathan Feels Undeserved After Being Pushed Aside in Season 4
And yet, that same death could feel completely unearned.
Stranger Things Season 4 barely gave Jonathan a purpose.
Instead of being in the heart of the action, he was stranded in a van with Mike, Will, and Argyle, chasing Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) from a thousand miles away.
He was detached from the Nancy storyline.
His usual bravery was replaced with comic relief and awkward tension. His character, once reliable and emotionally rich, was reduced to filler.
Now, just as he rejoins the central group in Hawkins, killing him would feel like a lazy device for shock value. It’s not a story.
Death Isn’t the Only Way to Give Jonathan a Purpose
A character doesn’t need to die to be meaningful.
Jonathan could finally take charge in Season 5, fighting with the original gang and reestablishing his bond with Will.
He could mend what was broken with Nancy or choose to step away with dignity.
His sacrifice isn’t necessary for emotional payoff. He’s already sacrificed so much. What he needs now is a moment of strength — a victory.
There are ways to give him closure without making him a martyr.
Stranger Things Season 5 Release Schedule
| Stranger Things Season 5 | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Volume 1 | November 26, 2025 |
| Volume 2 | December 25, 2025 |
| Series Finale | December 31, 2025 |
Netflix is setting the stage for an epic end, but not everyone may make it to the credits.
So, does Jonathan really need to die? Well, Jonathan Byers deserves more than being a narrative casualty.
Yes, his death would shock. Yes, it would raise the emotional stakes.
But at what cost?
After being sidelined for an entire season, killing him now feels less like bravery and more like convenience.
Is this the send-off he earned? Or a lazy ploy to tie up loose ends?
Will the Duffer Brothers give Jonathan the justice he deserves, or leave him bleeding in the background once more?
And if he dies, who’s next? Is anyone in Hawkins really safe?
Fans deserve better. So does Jonathan. Do let us know in the comments below!
We want to hear from you! Are you having feelings about Jonathan’s storyline as we veer into the final episodes of Stranger Things?
We’ve still got over two months to ponder this, so let’s talk! Leave your comment below!
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The post Stranger Things 5 Theory: Why Jonathan Byers’ Death Would Ruin the Story appeared first on TV Fanatic.
