Stranger Things season 5 is easily one of the most anticipated releases of 2025. As the final chapter in this iconic series, fans are passionately theorizing about the fates of their favorite characters.

Season 4 ended on a major cliffhanger when Vecna almost killed Max before being saved by Eleven at the last moment. While it is confirmed that Max will return in the upcoming season, her ultimate fate remains uncertain. A fascinating fan theory has recently emerged, suggesting that Max might wake up as Vecna himself.

Let’s dive into this intriguing possibility.

Max Waking Up As Vecna in Stranger Things 5

Max Mayfield was going through a significant trauma in season 4 following the death of her brother, Billy Hargrove. She became one of Vecna’s victims, as he preys on emotionally vulnerable individuals. The first time she encountered him, Max managed to escape with the help of Kate Bush’s ‘Running Up That Hill’. However, Vecna’s powers proved too much for her during their second confrontation.

When all seemed lost, Eleven stepped in to rescue her from the crawls of death. Despite her survival, Max was left in a coma, blind, and with an uncertain future. This has sparked countless fan theories about her role in the final season.

One particular compelling theory shared by a Reddit user speculates that Max might wake up as Vecna and challenge Eleven:

“I’m wondering if anyone else has the theory that max might wake up as One and be a challenge to Elevens powers. Given that she died for a whole minute, it’s completely possible that One took her soul, and is now capable of working against their group through her body? Even in disguise?

This might sound odd but I just rewatched and I completely feel like if she does wake up in season 5, something will be different about her….especially given the fact that Eleven couldn’t find her in her coma either. Thoughts?”

The Evidence Supporting Max and Vecna Theory

According to this theory, Vecna may have taken Max’s soul leaving her as a vessel for his plans. Fans believe Max could be used as a spy just like, much like Will Byers was possessed. Interestingly the Duffer Brothers have advised fans to watch season 2 before the final season. This could hint at parallels between the storylines of Will Byers and Max.

This theory might seem wild however it’s not without merits. At the end of Season 4, Eleven tries to find Max in her mind but finds nothing but emptiness. This could suggest that Vecna might have taken control of Max’s soul.

WARNING: Potential spoilers ahead. Proceed with caution.

Max and Eleven Will Share Scenes in Season 5

Recent leaks from Stranger Things have revealed some exciting spoilers for the final season. Notably, it has also been leaked that Max and Eleven will share scenes set in the 1950s.

Although a bit odd, this makes sense as the final season will further explore Henry Creel’s origins when he was a kid in the 1950s. If Max is trapped inside Vecna’s mind, Eleven might be able to access her while navigating Henry’s childhood memories.

This plot aligns with the theory that Vecna is using Max as part of his plan against Eleven and the Hawkins gang.

While Netflix has confirmed that season 5 will premiere in 2025, the exact release date has not been announced yet. Fans can expect new updates from Stranger Things season 5 very soon.

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