The Stranger Things IMDb rating has been a trendy topic of discussion since the series premiered in 2016. This 2026 review will dissect the show’s ratings, focusing on its popularity, and the controversial Will Byers storyline in Season 4.
Stranger Things has consistently been one of the most-watched series on Netflix. With an overall IMDb rating of 8.7, the show has captivated audiences with its blend of sci-fi, horror, and nostalgia . Each season has contributed uniquely to the series' legacy, with varying ratings and critical acclaim. The ratings demonstrate a strong fan base and critical appreciation, with Season 1 and Season 4 standing out as particular fan favorites, earning 8.8 and 8.9 IMDb ratings respectively .
One of the most intriguing aspects of Stranger Things IMDb ratings is the episode-by-episode breakdown. Season 1, for instance, features episodes like “Chapter One: The Vanishing of Will Byers” and “Chapter Two: The Weirdo on Maple Street,” both of which have ratings of 8.5 and 8.3 respectively . These ratings highlight the series' ability to maintain high viewership and critical acclaim across different seasons and episodes.
Season 4, in particular, has been a subject of high intrigue, primarily due to the controversial storyline involving Will Byers. The ratings for Season 4 were initially high, with episodes like “Chapter Seven: The Massacre at Hawkins Lab” being the highest-rated in the series . However, the inclusion of the controversial storyline involving Will Byers triggered a wave of review-bombing, leading to a significant drop in ratings. This drop was particularly evident in Season 4, which initially had a rating of 8.9, but faced a significant decline due to negative reviews .
Season 5, especially Episode 7, is now officially the lowest-rated episode in the series, with a score of 5.9 on IMDb . Which is probably because of the Will Byers coming-out storyline. The final season's second volume has received significant backlash, with audience scores plummeting to series lows, following the release of the controversial storyline in Season 5.
The IMDb rating of Stranger Things and its specific ratings for each episode showcase the series' journey through its five seasons, highlighting both its triumphs and the controversies that have impacted its reception. Despite the drop in ratings, Stranger Things remains a beloved series for many, with its unique blend of nostalgia, mystery, and horror continuing to captivate audiences.
