Saving Hawkins from the grip of supernatural forces has always come with a hefty price. Fans eagerly awaited the fierce and emotional ride of Stranger Things Season 5. The Duffer Brothers have tantalizingly promised that the series finale would be nothing short of a masterpiece. Viewers knew that heartfelt goodbyes often come tangled with heartbreak. Since the final episode graced our screens, many have been scouring the internet to uncover the fate of their favorite characters. So, who meets their end in the last chapter of Stranger Things? Let’s break it down.
Does Anyone Die in the Stranger Things Finale?

Yes, the grand finale of Stranger Things Season 5 Episode 8 doesn’t send us off without a shocking twist. While many fans anticipated a major character’s demise, the writers chose an unexpected path. The only character to meet a tragic end was Kali, who had only recently taken on a significant role in the storyline.
After being under Vecna’s influence, the scene unfolds as Hopper lifts Eleven from the bath, allowing Max to return to reality while Kali and Eleven find themselves back in Hawkins’ lab within the Upside Down. However, the peace is short-lived, as the military soon ambushes them. With Eleven missing, they capture Hopper and Kali.
Lieutenant Akers pressure-cooks Hopper, demanding the location of Eleven by taking Kali hostage. In a tense moment, when Hopper refuses to divulge information, Akers fires a shot—hitting Kali on the side. Fortunately, it’s more of a scare tactic than an intended hit.
Meanwhile, chaos ensues as Murray initiates a bomb attack on the Hawkins lab. Tragically, during this chaotic moment, Kali is truly lost at the hands of Akers. When Eleven and Hopper rush to her, they find her in a dire state, losing blood fast. With a serene but sorrowful acceptance, Kali tells Eleven she knew her story would end here, yet she encourages her sister, reminding her that Eleven has a long journey ahead.
Who else was in danger during the finale?
Throughout the final season, various characters faced life-threatening situations. However, Kali’s death stood out due to its emotional weight, impacting Eleven’s journey moving forward. This tension kept viewers on edge, wondering if their favorites would survive or fall.
Was there any foreshadowing for Kali’s death?
Fans suspect that Kali’s limited screen time leading up to the finale hinted that her character might not survive. Her unexpected appearance in the final season made her fate more shocking, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
What does Kali’s death mean for Eleven?
Kali’s demise significantly affects Eleven’s character arc. It serves as a pivotal moment, pushing her toward growth and deeper connections with the remaining characters. It opens the door for new dynamics in the narrative as Eleven carries the weight of loss.
The end of Stranger Things introduces a bittersweet closure, melding excitement with sorrow. Heartbreaking moments like Kali’s death remind us why we fell in love with this series in the first place. If you want to share your thoughts or theories, drop a comment below. Who do you think will impact the story the most as it wraps up?