The stars of 'Stranger Things,' ranked by success

The Stars of "Stranger Things," Ranked by Success

In July 2016, Netflix released a new series that blended '80s nostalgia from "The Goonies" and Spielberg classics with modern visual effects and a group of talented young newcomers. That show was "Stranger Things," which quickly became a global hit and transformed its cast of unknown kids into instant celebrities.

Rising to Fame

Following the show's massive success, several cast members broke into other major entertainment ventures. Millie Bobby Brown, Sadie Sink, and Joe Keery expanded their careers beyond the series, pursuing acting in other franchises, exploring music, and even earning awards recognition.

Different Paths After the Show

Not every young actor from the series pursued the spotlight. Some chose smaller indie projects or shifted focus to their education and personal growth. Despite this, all remain part of the cultural legacy built by the series.

Measuring Success

Our ranking of the show’s child stars considers post-series roles, social media presence, side projects, and overall influence in the entertainment world. While season five’s new trailer keeps fans excited, attention remains on the evolving careers of these stars.

Ferguson, who plays Lucas's witty and confident sister Erica Sinclair, is the youngest main cast member at 19.

Author’s Summary

The young cast of "Stranger Things" transformed from unknowns into international stars, with each carving a unique path through fame, creativity, and personal ambition.

Business Insider — 2025-11-01