Are you a die-hard Stranger Things fan, eagerly awaiting the next season? Do you find yourself craving that perfect blend of 80s nostalgia, supernatural thrills, and lovable characters?
Fear not, my friend! I’ve got you covered with a list of 9 shows that will scratch that Stranger Things itch while you wait.
1. Dark (2017-2020)
If you’re a fan of Stranger Things’ mind-bending storylines and small-town mysteries, Dark is a must-watch. This German sci-fi thriller follows the disappearance of two children in a small town, unraveling a complex web of time travel and interconnected families. Prepare to have your brain twisted in the best way possible.
2. The Umbrella Academy (2019-present)
Stranger Things isn’t the only show with a dysfunctional family trying to save the world. In The Umbrella Academy, a group of estranged siblings with superpowers must band together to prevent an apocalypse. With its quirky characters, impressive visual effects, and killer soundtrack, this series is a perfect match for Stranger Things fans.
3. Locke & Key (2020-2022)
After a family tragedy, the Locke children move into their ancestral home, Keyhouse, where they discover magical keys that unlock both powers and mysteries. Based on the comic book series, Locke & Key shares Stranger Things’ blend of supernatural elements and coming-of-age themes.
4. I Am Not Okay With This (2020)
If you love Eleven’s telekinetic powers in Stranger Things, you’ll be drawn to Sydney Novak’s budding abilities in I Am Not Okay With This. This coming-of-age black comedy follows Sydney as she navigates high school, family drama, and her blossoming superpowers. It’s a heartfelt and humorous take on growing up with a sci-fi twist.
5. Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)
While not set in the 80s, Freaks and Geeks captures the essence of Stranger Things’ young cast and their dynamic. This short-lived but beloved series follows a group of high school misfits in the 1980s as they navigate the ups and downs of teenage life. If you’re a fan of the younger characters in Stranger Things, you’ll find plenty to love in Freaks and Geeks.
6. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)
Buffy may not have the 80s setting, but it shares Stranger Things’ blend of supernatural elements and high school drama. Follow Buffy Summers, a teenage girl chosen to battle vampires, demons, and other evil forces. With its witty dialogue, lovable characters, and thrilling action, Buffy is a must-watch for any Stranger Things fan.
7. Lost (2004-2010)
While not a perfect match, Lost shares Stranger Things’ ability to keep viewers hooked with its mysteries and ensemble cast. When the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815 crash on a mysterious island, they must band together to survive and uncover the island’s secrets. If you’re a fan of Stranger Things’ ability to keep you guessing, Lost is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
8. Twin Peaks (1990-1991, 2017)
Stranger Things isn’t the only show that knows how to create an unsettling atmosphere in a small town. Twin Peaks, created by David Lynch, follows the investigation into the murder of a high school student in a seemingly idyllic town. With its quirky characters, surreal elements, and complex plot, Twin Peaks is a must-watch for fans of Stranger Things’ supernatural mysteries.
9. Yellowjackets (2021-present)
While not a perfect match, Yellowjackets shares Stranger Things’ ability to balance dark themes with a strong ensemble cast and killer soundtrack. The series follows a girls soccer team whose plane crashes in the wilderness in 1996, forcing them to survive for 19 months. In the present day, the survivors are haunted by their experiences and the secrets they share.
So there you have it, nine shows that will help fill the Stranger Things-shaped hole in your heart while you wait for the next season. Happy binging!
