The creators of Stranger Things, the Duffer Brothers, have addressed the noticeable absence of Demogorgons and Demodogs in the season finale. This decision was influenced by narrative choices concerning the character Vecna and an intent to avoid “demo fatigue” among viewers. As fans anticipated the climactic battle, they were surprised to find these familiar creatures missing from the action in the episode that aired in March 2025.
In a recent interview, Matt and Ross Duffer explained that the finale’s setting, known as The Abyss, was not conducive to the smaller creatures. Matt noted, “Vecna was not expecting this sneak attack on his home turf. Never in a million years could he even imagine that.” The brothers had considered including a confrontation featuring the Demogorgons but ultimately decided that the massive Mind Flayer, which loomed over the proceedings, was sufficient for the battle without needing the support of the Demogorgon army.
The Duffer Brothers elaborated on the environment in which Vecna operates, describing it as a “giant, desolate planet.” They referenced a moment from Season 4, where Vecna—known as Henry at that time—encounters a Demogorgon in the distance. However, they clarified that there is no significant civilization of these creatures inhabiting that realm.
The creators also expressed concerns about diminishing the impact of the Demogorgons. Matt stated, “One of the other things we talked about was just demo fatigue. I felt like we did everything we wanted to do with them in ‘Sorcerer,’ and wanting to keep the focus on Vecna and the Mind Flayer, who’s been absent this season.”
In a twist for fans, the Duffer Brothers revealed that an homage to the film Aliens was originally planned for the finale. Matt mentioned a sequence involving a field of Demogorgon eggs, but logistics prevented its inclusion. Ross humorously noted, “Yeah, that’s in the three-hour version of the finale, which was never written.” This concept, while intriguing, did not make the final cut in favor of pacing and clarity.
Despite the absence of the Demogorgons, the finale still delivered an epic confrontation. The Duffer Brothers’ focus on the Mind Flayer was deliberate, ensuring that viewers remained engaged with the primary antagonist, Vecna. While some fans may have wished for a cameo from the Demogorgons, the emotional stakes and narrative momentum provided a compelling climax to the series.
As Stranger Things continues to capture audiences, the creators have confirmed plans for a spinoff that will explore unanswered questions from the finale, demonstrating their commitment to expanding the universe they have created.
