You like “Stranger Things.” I like “Stranger Things.” We all like “Stranger Things.” Given the show’s explosively memorable debut in 2016, it’s hard to remember what the world looked like before. “Stranger Things” has become a staple of modern pop culture and is easily one of Netflix’s most successful original series.
Now, with the introduction of the new year, fans of the show can expect the much-anticipated fourth season to finally grace their TV screens. Of course, it should be noted that if you happen to be someone who hasn’t been caught up with the show up to season three, it may be wise to finish that first, as this article will contain spoilers for the third season.
With that out of the way, let’s discuss the big reveal the “Stranger Things” Instagram page made on Valentine’s Day: Jim Hopper is back from the dead with a sick new look. Indeed, at the end of season three, we witnessed Hopper get blown away with the destruction of the portal to the ‘upside-down,’ the parallel dimension filled with evil creatures that is featured in the show. The question becomes, then, how could Hopper possibly survive such an explosion?
Luckily for you, dear reader, I’ve taken the time to rewatch the final episodes of season three in order to write this article. After reviewing the episodes, specifically Hopper’s death scene, it’s possible that Hopper was able to jump—or fall—down the metal rafters that held up the platform he stood on. It’s also possible he would’ve been knocked unconscious by the impact of his fall, which would explain why he refused to answer when Joy called out to him after the explosion.
After the explosion, we can assume that the Russians kidnapped Hopper either for questioning, research or as payment for his crime. In the teaser, we saw Hopper working on a railroad, so he’s certainly in a work camp. But the next question is: how did he survive the demi-dog at the end of season 3 if he is indeed “the American.”
Now, this entire theory is obviously very safe and practical. It’s much more likely that some stranger things will occur in order for David Harbour to reprise his role on our screens. He could just as easily be a clone or an alien. That’s what we love about “Stranger Things.”
The incredibly horrifying and life-threatening experiences that the characters encounter are the reason that we continue to be fans of the show, and Netflix knows it. It’s likely that the show will continue to become more ridiculous over time, and I’m here for it!
