Killing off Will Byers in the final season of Stranger Things would be a highly tragic and controversial choice for the beloved show’s conclusion. As the series nears its end on Netflix, fans have speculated about various ways the story might conclude with a bang, including the possibility of losing a cherished character like Will in the battle against Vecna. However, while the idea of Will making the ultimate sacrifice for his friends and family is emotionally powerful, it may be too much of a tragedy for the show’s overall narrative.
Will has already endured immense hardships throughout the series, from his abduction in the first season to being possessed by the Mind Flayer in the second. Revisiting his suffering could feel repetitive and even cruel to the character. It’s essential to allow Will the opportunity to enjoy life after confronting the Upside Down’s horrors alongside his friends.
In the most recent season, Stranger Things also hinted at Will grappling with his sexuality, adding a crucial layer to his character development. It would be a disservice to sideline this significant storyline by abruptly ending Will’s life instead of allowing him to grow and explore his romantic interests in adulthood.
Additionally, saving Will has been a central focus in both the first and second seasons, making it senseless to put him through so much only to kill him off at the series’ conclusion. Such a decision would not do justice to the character’s journey and the efforts of the other characters to rescue him.
The impact of Will’s death on his mother, Joyce Byers, would be devastating. She tirelessly fought to reunite with her son, and losing him for good would shatter her entirely. After her unwavering dedication to Will, Joyce deserves a happy ending where she can finally find peace knowing her son is safe.
The young characters of Stranger Things have already experienced a disproportionate amount of heartbreak and sadness for their age. Rather than subjecting them to yet another traumatic event, the series should reward them after five seasons of enduring immense challenges.
While Will’s death might evoke strong emotions, the goal should be a satisfying conclusion for fans, not merely an emotional one. Killing him off would deny him the opportunity for a normal life, a chance that other characters have had despite their hardships.
The possibility of a time jump in the final season should also be considered, offering a glimpse into the characters’ lives after Vecna’s defeat. Will deserves to be a part of that future, leaving his past behind.
Moreover, the sacrifices made by Jonathan Byers throughout the series, driven by his love for his younger brother, would lose their meaning if Will were to die. The moral core of Stranger Things revolves around the importance of friendship and protection, and Will’s survival would signify the characters’ collective triumph.
In conclusion, while there is speculation about which character may meet their end in Stranger Things’ final season, killing off Will would seem too predictable and undermine the potential for a more satisfying and meaningful conclusion to the series. Keeping Will alive would allow the characters to break free from their ties to the Upside Down and provide a long-awaited happy ending for both them and the audience.