Devoted fans of Netflix's hit series Stranger Things are convinced they've uncovered a major clue pointing to a new hero in the show's final season. The theory suggests that Holly Wheeler, the youngest member of the Wheeler family, is destined to develop supernatural powers for an epic confrontation with the villain Vecna.
The Crucial Clue in 'The Crawl'
The speculation hinges on a seemingly innocent moment in the very first episode of season 5, titled 'The Crawl'. The scene occurs after Karen Wheeler is called to speak with Holly's teacher because the young girl was seen talking to someone invisible. As Holly waits outside the office, her older brother Mike Wheeler attempts to comfort her.
Mike questions Holly about her 'mystery friend', Mr Whatsit, who is later revealed to be a guise used by Vecna to lure Hawkins' children. To reassure her, Mike gifts Holly a Dungeons & Dragons figurine named 'Holly the Heroic'. He explains the figure is a cleric, stating: "She has divine powers. She can cast spells of protection to ward against evil spirits. Even cooler, she can cast a dimension door, which can teleport you to anywhere you visualise." He concludes by promising, "She'll keep you safe."
Fan Theories and Reddit Buzz
This dialogue has sparked intense discussion among the show's community. A Reddit user named @mwrld99 highlighted the scene in a post titled 'Holly the Heroic', suggesting it was deliberate foreshadowing. The user pondered whether Holly would manifest these exact abilities—protective spells and teleportation—in the climactic final episode to escape or defend herself.
Other fans quickly expanded on the idea. One commenter connected Holly's potential to Will Byers' own developing powers, noting: "Will and Holly getting powers in the final season saving everyone. Mike said Will is like Vecna, can tap into hive mind and later he does get powers. So there's a chance something similar happens with Holly." They emphasised Holly's significantly increased screen time in season 5 as further evidence of her pivotal role.
However, not all viewers are convinced of the 'powers' theory. Some believe the scene simply sets up Holly for a more traditional, yet crucial, heroic moment to save the day without supernatural aid.
The Final Confrontation Awaits
The theory gains additional weight from events later in season 5, volume 2. Holly is seen clutching the 'Holly the Heroic' figurine for courage while trapped in Vecna's Mind Lair with Max Mayfield. Although her attempt to escape ultimately fails when Vecna recaptures her, the gesture ties the figurine directly to her struggle against the show's primary antagonist.
Audiences won't have to wait long to discover Holly's fate. The final episode of Stranger Things is scheduled for release on New Year's Day at 1am UK time, promising to deliver answers to this and many other burning questions as the epic saga concludes.
