Fans push theory of a secret ninth episode for Stranger Things Season 5

Movieweb reports a social-media conspiracy called "Conformity Gate" claims Netflix will release a secret ninth episode of Stranger Things Season 5 on Wednesday, Jan. 7th, 2026.

The theory holds that Vecna was actually victorious and that scenes in the finale—including Mike Wheeler talking about the future—are part of Vecna playing a game. While some viewers hope a hidden episode will appear, the article says there is absolutely no indication that Netflix will release another episode. The piece compares the rumor to a similar fan belief around Sherlock, noting Sherlock aired four seasons between 2010 and 2017 with three episodes per season and that some fans expected a secret fourth episode; as The Standard reported, viewers even speculated that a different show title might mask a hidden Sherlock instalment, and, according to The Independent, a fan imagined Apple Tree Yard turning into a surprise Sherlock episode.

The article adds that Stranger Things’ Season 5 release schedule was announced months before the first episode and that the Duffer Brothers, producers and cast discussed the episodes in interviews, making a secret finale release seem unlikely. It concludes that, as with Sherlock (which never produced a hidden extra episode), a new Stranger Things episode is not expected and that fans should look to upcoming spin-offs and new TV offerings in 2026.

Key Topics

Culture, Stranger Things, Conformity Gate, Vecna, Mike Wheeler, Duffer Brothers