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Caleb McLaughlin Discusses Eleven's Fate and His Aspirations for Miles Morales
2/8/2026, 1:19:09 AM
McLaughlin's Reflections on Eleven's Fate
Caleb McLaughlin, known for his role as Lucas Sinclair in Netflix's "Stranger Things," recently shared his thoughts on the ambiguous fate of Eleven, portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown. In an interview on ABC's "The View," McLaughlin stated, "I think she’s…gone. I think rest in peace, Eleven," expressing his belief that Eleven did not survive the series' conclusion. This sentiment aligns with fellow cast member Sadie Sink, who also suggested that Eleven's fate was final, describing the characters' later speculation about her survival as a coping mechanism.
The final moments of "Stranger Things" Season 5 left fans divided, with some believing Eleven managed to escape the destruction of the Upside Down. McLaughlin acknowledged that while his character Lucas might hold onto hope for Eleven's survival, he personally interprets the ending differently. He emphasized the Duffer Brothers' intention to maintain a level of optimism throughout the series, stating, "I think what the Duffers wanted to do was leave a level of optimism that the show always had."
Upcoming Projects: "Goat" and Miles Morales Aspirations
As McLaughlin transitions from "Stranger Things," he is set to star in the animated film "Goat," which features a diverse cast including Gabrielle Union and Stephen Curry. The film, scheduled for release on February 13, 2026, follows the story of Will, a goat aspiring to play a professional sport. During the film's promotion, McLaughlin expressed his enthusiasm for the project and reflected on his journey since the conclusion of "Stranger Things."
In addition to his current projects, McLaughlin has publicly expressed his desire to portray Miles Morales, the Spider-Man character. He stated, "I would love to play Miles," highlighting his connection to the character as a fellow New Yorker. This interest gained traction following his social media posts showcasing his gymnastics training, which fueled speculation about a potential casting.
Official Statements & Responses
McLaughlin's comments regarding Eleven's fate have sparked discussions among fans and cast members alike. He reiterated the Duffer Brothers' aim to leave viewers with hope, despite his personal belief that Eleven did not survive. His remarks on wanting to play Miles Morales reflect a broader enthusiasm among fans for diverse representation in superhero roles.
Criticism & Opposition
While McLaughlin's interpretation of Eleven's fate resonates with some, it has drawn criticism from fans who remain hopeful about her return. The split opinions among cast members, including Sink's similar stance, highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the series' conclusion and its implications for character arcs.
What's Next
"Stranger Things: Tales from '85," an animated spin-off featuring Eleven, is set to premiere on April 23, 2026. This new series aims to explore different narratives within the "Stranger Things" universe, potentially altering established lore. Meanwhile, McLaughlin's aspirations for the role of Miles Morales continue to garner attention as fans await further developments in both his career and the Spider-Verse franchise.
