Dedicated fans of Netflix's hit series Stranger Things are buzzing with a compelling new theory that suggests a major character is set to develop supernatural abilities in the show's final season. The speculation centres on Holly Wheeler, the youngest member of the Wheeler family, who has taken on a more prominent role in season 5.
The Crucial Clue in 'The Crawl'
The evidence for this theory, according to viewers, is hidden in plain sight during the very first episode of the new season. In the episode titled 'The Crawl', Mike Wheeler has a heart-to-heart with his younger sister Holly after their mother, Karen, becomes concerned that Holly is talking to an imaginary friend. This friend, Mr Whatsit, is later revealed to be Vecna, who is manipulating Hawkins' children.
To comfort her, Mike gives Holly a Dungeons & Dragons figurine named 'Holly the Heroic'. He explains that the figure is a cleric with divine powers, capable of casting protection spells against evil spirits and even teleporting via a 'dimension door'. Mike's poignant promise, "She'll keep you safe", is now being viewed by fans as deliberate foreshadowing.
Fan Theories Gain Momentum Online
The theory gained traction on Reddit, where user @mwrld99 shared screenshots and sparked discussion. The post questioned whether the description of the figurine's powers was a hint at Holly's own future capabilities, especially after seeing her brave attempt to escape Vecna's Mind Lair with Max Mayfield in part 2.
Other fans expanded on the idea, linking it to Will Byers' own emerging powers. One comment suggested that if Will has developed abilities from his connection to the Upside Down, other children Vecna has targeted but not killed—like Holly and Max—might also manifest powers. This has led to speculation that Holly could play a pivotal, heroic role in the finale.
Scepticism and Anticipation for the Finale
Not everyone is fully convinced by the 'powers' theory. Some fans believe the clue points more towards Holly having a significant, brave moment to save the day using her courage and wit, rather than literal supernatural abilities. However, the increased screen time for her character this season has convinced many that her role is far from over.
The answer will be revealed very soon. The final episode of Stranger Things season 5 is scheduled to drop on Netflix in the UK at 1am on New Year's Day. This gives theorists little time to wait before discovering if Holly Wheeler truly is destined to become 'Holly the Heroic' in the battle against Vecna.
