Summary:
- A new set video for Stranger Things season 5 suggests that the Hawkins Lab will return.
- This hints at the potential comeback of Dr. Brenner.
- Although the Duffer Brothers confirmed his death, his return could help tie up loose ends.
An official set video for Stranger Things season 5 confirms the return of a well-known location within Hawkins, hinting at the revival of a deceased character. As the final season of Stranger Things is currently in production, speculation about the upcoming episodes is rampant.
Behind-the-scenes images and videos shared by the cast and crew add fuel to the speculation, with some raising concerns about character survival while others suggest certain characters will make a comeback before the series concludes.
With so many unknowns surrounding Stranger Things season 5 and its direction for the Hawkins gang, fans are generating numerous theories based on each update. The recent behind-the-scenes video confirms the reappearance of a familiar Stranger Things location in the final episodes, leaving fans to wonder if a significant character will also return alongside it.
Teaser of Hawkins Lab in Stranger Things Season 5 Suggests Dr. Brenner’s Comeback
In a now-deleted Instagram story, Stranger Things revealed that in season 5, the series will revisit the Hawkins Lab—specifically, the Rainbow Room. Season 4 of Stranger Things extensively explored this location, delving into Eleven and Henry Creel’s ties to the facility.
Both characters were raised there, and Henry transformed into the villain Vecna within its walls. Whether the final episodes of Stranger Things will revisit the lab in the present timeline or through flashbacks remains uncertain. However, the inclusion of the Rainbow Room raises one pressing question: will Dr. Brenner make a return?
“It’s very possible that Eleven’s ” papa ” could make a surprise appearance in the fifth season, especially if the characters are returning to the Hawkins Lab.”
Although Dr. Brenner appeared to meet his demise in Stranger Things season 4, the show has a habit of playing with death. As the characters possibly return to the Hawkins Lab in season 5, there’s a chance Brenner could make a surprising comeback.
There’s still much to explore about his character and his connection to Eleven and Henry. While bringing him back might seem like a cheap move, it could lead to some powerful emotional moments.
The Duffer Brothers’ Comments on Dr. Brenner’s Potential Return in Stranger Things Season 5
Despite the lab tease in Stranger Things season 5 hinting at Dr. Brenner’s comeback, the Duffer Brothers previously stated that the character is truly deceased. Fans, however, remain skeptical, especially given Brenner’s near-death experience in the past.
In an interview with Josh Horowitz for the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Matt and Ross acknowledged that Brenner is gone “for real this time.” While this appears to settle the debate, the interview occurred in 2022, leaving room for changes.
With the delays caused by the 2023 strikes, there’s a chance the Duffers reconsidered their stance. Additionally, Brenner could potentially return without contradicting their words, particularly if the show revisits the Hawkins Lab in flashbacks.
The Rationality Behind Dr. Brenner’s Reappearance in Stranger Things
While Dr. Brenner’s appearance in Stranger Things season 5 isn’t confirmed, it’s a logical move for the show’s final installment. If he returns to the present timeline, it offers a chance for him to redeem himself by helping defeat the monster he’s responsible for creating.
Since Henry’s transformation into Vecna and his control over his powers are consequences of Brenner’s actions, it would be fitting for him to play a role in defeating the villain. However, even if he helps, it may not fully make up for the harm he’s caused throughout the series.
If Brenner shows up in the present-day timeline, it will give the character a chance to redeem himself and help defeat the monster he created.
Brenner’s comeback in flashbacks is particularly logical, as Stranger Things must tie up loose ends in his backstory. Several unanswered questions regarding the Rainbow Room, Henry’s escape, and Eleven’s history need resolution in Season 5.
If the Hawkins Lab video sheds light on any of these enigmas, Dr. Brenner will probably be involved. Given actor Matthew Modine‘s substantial presence in the series, he should appear in the final episodes.
