A Stranger Things cast member addressed one of the most talked-about reactions to the series finale. The actor, known to fans as Papa, gave a blunt response when asked by viewers whether he liked how the show ended. His reply quickly spread across social media, fueling continued debate over the final episode.
Matthew Modine shares his thoughts on Stranger Things finale
Matthew Modine, who portrayed Dr. Martin Brenner in Stranger Things, expressed clear disapproval of the series finale. When asked by a fan on Instagram, “Hey papa did you like the finale of Stranger Things?” Modine replied, “Nope.” He followed up with, “I hope there is a ninth episode—for the fans,” signaling disappointment with the eighth episode conclusion, titled “The Rightside Up.”
Modine’s comment echoed fan criticism and fueled theories surrounding the finale, including the #ConformityGate speculation. Supporters of the theory argued that Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) had created an illusion in the finale and claimed a secret ninth episode would reveal the truth. The supposed episode never appeared, and no one has confirmed the theory.
In January, Saturday Night Live aired a parody trailer during Finn Wolfhard’s guest-hosting appearance. The segment featured mock spin-offs and directly referenced the #ConformityGate narrative. Mike (Wolfhard) insisted that Vecna had fabricated the finale, while Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) voiced their doubts. To support his theory, Mike introduced an Eleven who was not played by Millie Bobby Brown. The sketch amplified fan theories and reinforced the conversation around the finale.
Modine’s use of “Nope” and his wish for a ninth episode captured a portion of the audience that considers the ending incomplete or disappointing. Although the show killed off his character earlier in the series, Modine still holds a significant place in the Stranger Things legacy, and fans continue to value his perspective.
By February 2026, Netflix had announced additional Stranger Things projects, including prequels, sequels, and spin-offs. However, it has not confirmed any plans for a ninth episode to follow season 5.
