Finn Wolfhard Says Goodbye to Stranger Things, Teases Possible Return to IT Universe
Finn Wolfhard is closing one of the most defining chapters of his career with the end of Netflix’s Stranger Things, while also signaling that his time in the IT universe may not be over.
The actor, who rose to global fame as Mike Wheeler, joined his castmates and the show’s creators for an emotional farewell as the final episode premiered on New Year’s Eve 2025. The decade-long series, which debuted in 2016, transformed its young ensemble into household names and left a lasting mark on modern television.
Speaking at a special screening in New York, Wolfhard described the goodbye as deeply personal. He said growing up alongside the cast made the experience feel more like a family than a job, adding that walking away from Hawkins and the Upside Down was both proud and emotional.
Cast members including Millie Bobby Brown, Sadie Sink, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, and Noah Schnapp echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on friendships formed over years of filming. The Duffer brothers praised the cast for carrying the story from childhood into adulthood, calling the journey the highlight of their careers.
While one chapter closes, Wolfhard has hinted that another could reopen. In a recent interview with Esquire, the actor addressed speculation sparked by imagery tied to IT: Welcome to Derry, a prequel expanding the world of Stephen King’s IT. Wolfhard said filmmakers Andy and Barbara Muschietti told him early on that he remained connected to the project and suggested there may be future plans audiences have yet to see.
The season finale of Welcome to Derry teased time-bending elements that could allow characters from different eras to return, fueling fan theories about Wolfhard reprising his role as Richie Tozier.
For now, Wolfhard is balancing reflection with anticipation. As Stranger Things concludes its cultural run, the actor’s comments suggest his journey through iconic genre worlds may still have another chapter ahead.