Get ready for a mind-bending twist! SNL just dropped a bombshell, confirming the existence of a mysterious ninth episode of Stranger Things 5, or did they? Well, not exactly, but they sure had a blast playing with the rumors and theories surrounding the show's finale.
In a hilarious SNL sketch, the cast parodies the popular Netflix series, Stranger Things, by presenting a fake 'Episode 9' and some outrageous spinoff trailers. The skit takes aim at the online frenzy surrounding #ConformityGate and the alleged missing episodes of the show. It features a star-studded lineup with Finn Wolfhard, Gaten Matarazzo, and Caleb McLaughlin, who hilariously spoof the Vecna rumors. But wait, there's more! The Duffer Brothers, creators of Stranger Things, step in to debunk fan theories and set the record straight: no deleted scenes or secret episodes exist.
The sketch begins with a Netflix 'trailer' that reveals the streaming giant's plans for the beloved series. They promise not only prequels and sequels but also unexpected spinoffs. Imagine Steve as an inner-city teacher in 'Strangerous Minds' or a series centered around Will's coming-out speech. The highlight, however, is how Netflix humorously turns the conspiracy theories into a reality. Finn Wolfhard's Mike, Gaten Matarazzo's Dustin, and Caleb McLaughlin's Lucas engage in a debate about the finale, with Dustin and Lucas questioning Mike's belief that it was all an illusion created by Vecna. To prove his point, Mike brings back Eleven, but it's not the Eleven we know and love, played by Millie Bobby Brown.
In a recent interview with Variety, Matt Duffer addressed the rumors, stating that the Google Doc circulating online with claims of deleted scenes is not legitimate. He also mentioned that he was unaware of a Change.org petition regarding the matter. Ross Duffer echoed this sentiment, stating that there were no cut scenes in the entire season. Matt Duffer further emphasized the challenges of managing a series with such a massive fan following, ensuring that Netflix has never interfered with their creative process.
Matt Duffer, in a conversation with Collider, reiterated that there were no deleted scenes, specifically addressing the rooftop scene with the teens, which was trimmed due to improvisation. He revealed that there has only been one deleted scene in the entire five seasons of Stranger Things, dating back to Season 1. This scene, written at Netflix's request, was shot and deleted, and the streaming service even forgot about it!
So, while there may not be a ninth episode of Stranger Things 5, SNL's playful take on the conspiracy theories and the Duffer Brothers' insights into the creative process offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of fan theories and the challenges of managing a beloved series. But here's where it gets controversial: do you think SNL crossed a line by parodying fan theories, or was it all in good fun? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
