Full Breakdown
Joe Keery's "End of Beginning" Tops UK Charts Following "Stranger Things" Finale
1/10/2026, 8:22:32 PM
Chart-Topping Success
Joe Keery, known for his role as Steve Harrington in Netflix's "Stranger Things," has achieved his first number one single in the UK with his song "End of Beginning." The track, released under his musical alias Djo, originally debuted in 2022 but gained significant traction after being featured in fan edits on TikTok and subsequently in the series finale of "Stranger Things," which aired on December 31, 2025. As of January 9, 2026, "End of Beginning" has surpassed Taylor Swift's "The Fate of Ophelia," which had held the top spot for seven weeks.
The song's rise to prominence is attributed to its emotional resonance with fans following the conclusion of the series, which has been a cultural phenomenon since its debut. "End of Beginning" has amassed over 2 billion streams on Spotify, making it one of the most popular tracks globally, with 5.4 million streams in the UK alone during the week of its chart ascent.
Background and Context
"End of Beginning" was initially released on Djo's album "Decide" in September 2022 and peaked at number four in the UK charts in 2024. Its resurgence can be linked to the emotional impact of the "Stranger Things" finale, where fans connected the song's themes of endings and new beginnings to the series' conclusion. This phenomenon mirrors previous instances where the show has revitalized older tracks, such as Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill," which topped the charts after being featured in season four.
Official Statements & Responses
While Joe Keery has not made a formal statement regarding his chart success, he previously expressed sentiments about the song's personal significance, stating, "I’m not trying to live in the past. I have new memories that I’m linking to [Chicago]." The song's success has been celebrated by fans, many of whom have shared their emotional responses on social media, calling it the "true credits song" of the series.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the celebratory atmosphere surrounding Keery's achievement, there has been criticism directed towards President Donald Trump, who defended an ICE agent involved in a fatal shooting incident in Minneapolis shortly before Keery's chart success. Keery publicly condemned Trump's remarks on social media, stating, "Zero human decency. Stop this man." This incident has sparked widespread outrage and protests, with many celebrities, including Keery, voicing their disapproval of the administration's response.
What's Next
As "Stranger Things" concludes its narrative arc, fans are eager for more music from Djo, with many calling for live performances and new projects. The success of "End of Beginning" has positioned Keery not just as an actor but as a legitimate musician, suggesting a promising future for his music career beyond the series.
In summary, Joe Keery's "End of Beginning" has not only topped the UK Singles Chart but has also become an anthem for fans navigating the emotional landscape following the end of "Stranger Things." The intersection of music and storytelling continues to resonate deeply with audiences, highlighting the lasting impact of the series on popular culture.
