There have been many theories about Stranger Things season 5, some involving the prospect of time travel. One theory in particular has given a big twist to these with the addition of a new cast member.

Stranger Things is concluding with its fifth and final season. There have been many twists and turns in the show but with a bit of mystery. Although Stranger Things has answered most of the questions, there are still some mysteries that need to be resolved.

Netflix’s Tudum event in June 2024 announced that Linda Hamilton has been cast in Stranger Things. However, the details about her character were kept secret sparking speculation among fans. A new theory suggests that she will play the future version of Eleven.

Linda Hamilton Will Play Future Eleven

Given that Stranger Things pays homage to the 80’s pop culture with many references from movies and TV shows of that era, it has long been theorized that time travel will feature in season 5. Now the Linda Hamilton theory has given a new twist to these speculations.

There are some clues supporting this wild theory. The Duffer Brothers have already announced that no new characters will be introduced in season 5. So technically Linda Hamilton’s character will not be a new addition to Stranger Things.

It has been rumored that Linda Hamilton will play a scientist/doctor in season 5. Eleven may become a scientist in the future to study the mysteries of Upside Down. The reasons for traveling in the future are a mystery though. The characters may have to visit the future to find a way to defeat Vecna.

Time travel could also have a completely different meaning in Stranger Things. It could be a vision of future Eleven or a flashforward scene at the end of the series.

Time Travel Fits into Stranger Things Universe

Time travel in Stranger Things might sound weird but it is actually quite fitting. As already mentioned, Stranger Things has many 80’s references. A Back to the Future poster in season 3 sparked the debate about time travel.

Now Linda Hamilton’s addition to Stranger Things has given a boost to these theories. Her role in the Terminator franchise makes time travel even more believable. It would not be the first time that an actor was linked to their previous work. In season 4, Robert Englud’s performance was as impactful as his iconic role as Freddy Krueger.

Linda Hamilton Could Also Play Patty Newby

Another theory suggests that Linda Hamilton will play Bob Newby’s sister, Patty Newby. As per the Stranger Things play, she was the girlfriend of Henry Creel in 1959. Her character was already announced in the play, so she would not be considered a new addition to Stranger Things.

In Stranger Things Play, Patty Newby is accidentally killed by Henry Creel which turns him evil. Later it was revealed that Patty Newby survived and left Hawkins after recovering. To defeat Vecna, Stranger Things characters might have to visit adult Patty Newby who might be played by Linda Hamilton.

There is another possibility that she will play an assistant to Dr Owen. The rumour that she is playing a scientist in season 5 has added more fuel to this theory.

Who do you think Linda Hamilton will play in Stranger Things? Write down your answers in the comments section below.