‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 Finale Breaks New Year's Record for Netflix

5 days ago 9

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The highly anticipated series finale of Stranger Things has broken a new streaming record, according to Netflix. The final episode of the hit science fiction show aired on December 31, 2025, leading to crashes at the time of release, and the streaming giant has disclosed how many people tuned in to the show's epic yet decisive conclusion.

According to Netflix's recent Top 10 Shows Global Overview, Stranger Things Season 5 has generated over 31.3 million views between December 29, 2025, and January 4, 2026. Additionally, these latest streaming numbers place Stranger Things Season 5 at #9 on Netflix's Most Popular English TV list, with over 105.7 million total views, sitting between Bridgerton Season 3 with 106 million views and The Night Agent Season 1 with 98.2 million views. Based on these latest numbers, the finale reportedly gave Netflix "most views ever on a New Year's Day." However, the platform has yet to disclose how much of that 31 million was from those who tuned in when the episode dropped.

Stranger Things Season 5 was released in three parts, with Part 1 debuting on November 26, 2025. Since then, the show has dominated the streaming charts for six consecutive weeks, while previous seasons have also ranked in the Top 10. Despite its millions of views, fans have expressed their disappointment with how the show ended, leading to the creation of "Conformity Gate" - a theory that fans believe the show has a "secret finale" and what was shown during New Year's Eve was "fake."

What's Next for Stranger Things?

Despite popular belief, there is no secret finale released on Netflix, debunking Conformity Gate. However, just because the show ended doesn't mean the franchise is over. The Duffer Brothers have confirmed that there's going to be a spin-off show, with a brand new premise, setting, and cast of characters.

Additionally, Netflix has announced that it will release a documentary, One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5, on January 12. It may not be the secret finale fans were hoping for, but it will offer a behind-the-scenes look at bringing this season finale to life, with cast and crew discussing how the series has changed their lives and allowing them to say goodbye.

All five seasons of Stranger Things are available to stream on Netflix. Follow Collider to stay up to date with the latest updates.