'Stranger Things' creator Matt Duffer offers insights into cast's bond with one with another

Stranger Things creator Matt Duffer has recently opened up about Finn Wolfhard's popularity amongst the newest additions to the show's cast.

During a panel conversation at a recent event, Duffer, 41, reflected on what he loved most about filming the fifth season of the Netflix hit, according to PEOPLE Magazine.

"I loved bringing in the younger guys," he said, referring to the new generation of child actors who appeared this season. 

"These kids were … especially [this one boy] — he was following Finn around like a puppy dog. He thought Finn was the coolest."

Duffer, who created the series alongside his twin brother Ross Duffer, described the moment as particularly meaningful, branding it a "full-circle" experience.

“That’s exactly how Finn was with Joe [Keery] back in the day,” he continued. 

“I mean, Finn followed Joe around like a little puppy dog. It was so cute.”

Wolfhard, now 22, jumped in during the conversation and jokingly added that, “And then Joe would follow me around.” 

The actor went on to reflect on how the dynamic has shifted over the years, revealing that stepping into a mentor-like role felt surprisingly emotional.

“I got to kind of weirdly do what these guys did in the first season, which is kind of protect. It almost felt like I was protecting a younger version of myself or that we were, this season, protecting versions of our younger selves,” Wolfhard explained.

He concluded by praising the newest cast members for their humor, “And that was really fun,” remarking, “And also just hilarious because those kids are so funny. They’re all Gen Alpha, and I don’t know any…”