The New Stranger Things Is Using Digital De-Aging Tech After Its Child Actors Kept Growing

Netflix Faces a Unique Challenge as the Cast Ages

November 26, 2025: Netflix confirms it has implemented cutting-edge de-aging technology for the upcoming season of Stranger Things. The decision comes after the show experienced significant delays—largely due to the pandemic and production pauses—which caused its young stars to age far beyond their characters’ timelines.

Why De-Aging Became Necessary

The new season is expected to pick up almost immediately after the events of Season 4. However, actors like Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo, and Caleb McLaughlin have grown well into adulthood. Without de-aging, the visual shift would be jarring, given the show’s tight chronological continuity.

How the Technology Works

According to insiders, Netflix is using a blend of AI-powered face smoothing, frame-by-frame CGI adjustments, and custom digital scans of earlier seasons’ footage. This allows artists to reconstruct younger versions of each actor while retaining natural facial expressions.

A Growing Trend in Hollywood

Digital de-aging has become increasingly common in major film and TV productions, especially when storylines rely on tight timelines. From The Irishman to Marvel films, the technology continues to evolve—though using it on an entire returning cast is still rare.

Fan Reactions Are Already Mixed

Once news of the de-aging spread online, fans quickly shared their opinions. Some praised the decision, arguing that keeping characters visually consistent is essential for storytelling. Others expressed concern about overuse of CGI and worried that it might distract from performances.

Creators Promise the Story Remains the Focus

The Duffer Brothers have reassured fans that while de-aging is being used, it will not overshadow the heart of the show. They emphasized that emotional depth, character development, and the conclusion of the Upside Down arc remain the top priorities.

A High-Stakes Final Season

With fans worldwide awaiting the show’s final chapter, Stranger Things faces the pressure of delivering a visually flawless and emotionally satisfying conclusion. Netflix’s investment in digital de-aging signals its commitment to preserving the world of Hawkins exactly as audiences remember it.