In an interview with Glamour, Stranger Things executive producer Shawn Levy revealed a few details about the upcoming third season of the Netflix smash hit. The new season will be similar in length to the first two, at either eight or nine episodes; season one was eight episodes while season two had nine.
“We’re there,” Levy tells us. “It’ll be an eight or nine episode season. The number of episodes will be dictated by the amount of story that excites us. We now know what is going to happen in season three to every character.”
I’m glad to hear they’re intent on sticking to only what they believe will make for good television. I wouldn’t say show runners intentionally make bad or bloated seasons. But there is often pressure by the higher-ups to produce “more.” Why only make eight episodes if it can be stretched to 10 or 12? The answer is simple: Quality. Tighter and more succinct shows result in better quality episodes which leads to more positive reviews, both of which leads to new and retained viewership. Think about a show like The Leftovers. Critically acclaimed, loved by its fans. And their story was told, beginning to end, in just 28 (fantastic) episodes. When a show knows itself, it knows when to stop. And I love that the creative team behind Stranger Things seems to be doing everything in their power to stay true to that.
Levy also revealed a little bit of information about a few of Hawkins’ most famous residents.
“We’re going to give Will a break,” he says. “We’re not going to put Will through hell for a third season in a row. He’ll be dealing with stuff, but he won’t be at rock bottom.”
That’s great news. For me he was by the worst and least compelling part of season two. Hopefully this will give him a chance to actually do something and not just be held to the whims of yet another unknown evil.
And for my favorite part of the article, Levy confirmed they will further explore the burgeoning friendship between Dustin and Steve. Their bromance was low key the best thing about season two and I absolutely cannot wait to see that continue to grow.
Season three of Stranger Things is expected to be released in late 2018 or early 2019. The first two seasons are available on Netflix.
