Noah Schnapp, known for his role as Will Byers in Netflix’s Stranger Things, has opened up about the positive impact of coming out as gay in 2023 on his experience filming the show’s fifth and final season.
Speaking at the Broadway premiere of Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Schnapp shared that living authentically has made his time on set “a million times better,” allowing him to feel safer and more fulfilled in his work.
The premiere of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at New York City’s Marquis Theatre was a star-studded event, with original cast members including Schnapp, Charlie Heaton, Natalia Dyer, Jamie Campbell Bower, Priah Ferguson, Brett Gelman, Cara Buono, and Matthew Modine in attendance.
Series creators Matt and Ross Duffer, along with director Shawn Levy, also graced the red carpet, celebrating the expansion of the Stranger Things universe into live theater.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow serves as a prequel to the Netflix series, delving into the origin story of Henry Creel, the troubled teen who becomes the villainous Vecna.
Set in 1959 Hawkins, Indiana, the play introduces younger versions of familiar characters like Joyce, Hopper, and Bob, exploring the town’s dark past and the events that set the stage for the supernatural occurrences in the series.
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The production, directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, features a cast of 34 and has been praised for its stunning special effects, music, and storytelling.
Schnapp, who attended the premiere, described the play as a “must-watch” for fans, highlighting the high-quality production values and the talented cast.
The Duffer Brothers have noted that the play offers significant hints about the upcoming fifth season of the series, making it an essential experience for dedicated viewers.
As Stranger Things approaches its final chapter, Schnapp’s journey reflects the show’s broader themes of self-discovery and acceptance.
His openness about his identity and the support he has received from fans and colleagues alike underscore the importance of representation and authenticity in media.
The continued success of the franchise, both on screen and on stage, attests to its enduring impact and the deep connection it has forged with audiences around the world.
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