Netflix is expanding the world of Stranger Things with a new live-action prequel series. Titled Other Worlds: A Stranger Things Adventure, the upcoming show has officially received a series order and is scheduled to premiere in 2028. The announcement was made on November 6 as part of the streaming platform’s annual Stranger Things Day celebration, giving fans another reason to revisit the franchise.
Unlike the original series, which followed a group of children in Hawkins during the 1980s, the new project will travel several decades further back in time. It will introduce a different setting and a fresh collection of characters while exploring another chapter of the supernatural mythology that made the franchise a global success.
Other Worlds Takes Stranger Things Back to 1955
According to Netflix, Other Worlds is set in 1955 in Marion, Nevada. The story takes place before the events of the original Stranger Things and the stage production Stranger Things: The First Shadow, which explores the early history of Henry Creel, later known as Vecna.
Although Netflix has kept the central storyline under wraps, the Duffer Brothers previously indicated that the prequel would explore events connected to Henry’s exposure to the mysterious otherworldly substance that eventually gave him supernatural abilities. This could offer audiences a deeper look at the origins of some of the franchise’s biggest mysteries, although the precise plot and character connections have not yet been revealed.
The newly released teaser also establishes the 1950s atmosphere, using an old bicycle and a song from the era before revealing the date and location. It offers a glimpse of the show’s setting without giving away its central mystery.
Duffer Brothers and Kate Trefry Lead the Project
Matt and Ross Duffer are co-creating the series alongside Kate Trefry, who previously worked as a writer on Stranger Things and penned The First Shadow. Trefry will also serve as showrunner, writer and executive producer, making her an important creative voice behind the new chapter.
Filmmaker Joe Wright, known for Pride & Prejudice, Atonement and Darkest Hour, will direct the first three episodes and executive produce the project. Shawn Levy will also return as an executive producer through his production company 21 Laps, alongside Paul Dichter, Shelley Meals, Andrea Sperling and Pavlina Hatoupis. Production is scheduled to take place in New Mexico.
The Duffer Brothers said they had been dreaming about the project for years and described it as a fresh take on the franchise, with a new setting, heroes and villains. Netflix has not announced the cast yet, and further details about the characters are still being kept secret.
What This Means for the Stranger Things Franchise
The announcement marks another major step in Netflix’s effort to expand the Stranger Things universe beyond its original five-season story. The franchise already includes the stage production Stranger Things: The First Shadow and the animated series Stranger Things: Tales From ’85. However, Other Worlds will introduce a new live-action story rather than simply continuing the adventures of Eleven and the Hawkins group.
For longtime viewers, the biggest attraction could be its exploration of the franchise’s mythology from a different period. Its 1955 setting gives the creators room to build new mysteries without relying entirely on familiar characters.
With a 2028 premiere planned, fans will have to wait for casting announcements and a fuller look at the story. For now, Other Worlds: A Stranger Things Adventure promises a different era of supernatural horror while keeping the creative team behind the original phenomenon involved.
