After Stranger Things comes The Boroughs: First images and release date of new Netflix series

"Stranger Things" ended with its fifth and final season – and the Duffer Brothers' next Netflix series is already in the starting blocks: "The Boroughs." Fans of the "Stranger Things" creators can now get an impression of the cast and the look of the new series from the first images. It has also been announced when it will be available to watch: the eight episodes of the first season of "The Boroughs" will be released on Netflix on May 21, 2026.

The creators of "Stranger Things" are once again focusing on mystery. "The Boroughs" centers on the residents of a seemingly perfect retirement community. Sam Cooper (Alfred Molina) , a grieving widower, joins the community and soon makes a strange discovery. Together with a few fellow residents, he uncovers a dark and dangerous secret.

Parallels to Stranger Things

Not much else is known about the plot of "The Boroughs." The creators don't want to give too much away in advance, but they draw parallels between the seniors in the new series and the teenage heroes in "Stranger Things." "While the characters are a little older than the kids in 'Stranger Things' – they ride golf carts instead of bikes – the spirit is very much the same," the Duffer Brothers Matt and Ross are quoted by Netflix. "At its core, this is a story about belonging and growing up – no matter your age – filled with adventure, wonder, comedy, scares, and tears." They also mention almost casually that monsters will also play a role in the series: "The monsters are very cool – but it's the characters who will stay with you."

In addition to its mysterious plot, "The Boroughs" boasts a number of well-known lead actors. Alfred Molina plays the role of widower Sam. He is joined by Geena Davis as Renee, Bill Pullman as Jack, Alfre Woodard as Judy, Clarke Peters as Art, and Denis O'Hare as Wally.

Alfred Molina as Sam Cooper takes center stage

Behind the camera, the Duffer Brothers serve as executive producers alongside Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews. The latter are the creators of "The Boroughs" and are also responsible for showrunning the series. Addiss and Matthews say the following about the protagonist Sam Cooper, played by Alfred Molina, who, according to the creators, is supposed to be the heart of the story:

He recently lost his wife, and he's trying to figure out what to do with the time he has left, which is a question we all face, no matter our age. It's just the stakes get higher the more years you have under your belt.

Stranger Things continues with spin-off

Stranger Things fans may find "The Boroughs" an interesting alternative to their beloved series. But they can also look forward to more adventures from Hawkins. Starting April 23, 2026, the new animated series "Stranger Things: Tales from '85" will be available on Netflix. As the title suggests, the spin-off is set in 1985. Accordingly, the plot is set between the second and third seasons of the original series. Fans can look forward to a reunion with their beloved heroes. And once again, Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max must face a monstrous threat. You can watch the trailer here: