Premiering in April 2026 on Netflix, this animated television series expands the "Stranger Things" universe by depicting the original characters in 1985, inspired by '80s Saturday morning cartoons, as they face new supernatural threats in Hawkins. What is this animated spin-off series?

This animated television series, set to debut on Netflix in April 2026, is indeed Stranger Things (Review): Tales from '85. The title perfectly encapsulates the show's premise, with "Tales from '85" directly referencing its 1985 setting and its episodic, anthology-like nature, much like the Saturday morning cartoons it draws inspiration from. This creative approach allows the beloved original characters to embark on new adventures within the established Stranger Things universe, reimagined through a nostalgic lens.

The decision to animate the series and ground it in the aesthetic of 1980s Saturday morning cartoons offers a unique and engaging expansion of the Stranger Things world. This stylistic choice not only appeals to fans of the original live-action series but also taps into a broader appreciation for retro animation. By depicting the characters in this new format, the show can explore different narrative possibilities and present supernatural (Review) threats in Hawkins from a fresh perspective, all while maintaining the core charm and mystery that defines the franchise.

As a spin-off, Stranger Things: Tales from '85 serves to deepen the lore and provide additional narratives for viewers eager for more content from the Upside Down. Its arrival on Netflix in 2026 marks an exciting evolution for the franchise, demonstrating how popular stories can be creatively adapted and expanded across various mediums to keep audiences engaged and entertained.