The death of Eddie Munson in Stranger Things was heartbreaking, but a new detail has emerged that amplifies the tragedy, leaving fans even more devastated.
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Warning: This article contains spoilers for Stranger Things season 4 and the book One Way or Another.
Eddie Munson, played by Joseph Quinn, met his end in Stranger Things season 4, sacrificing himself to protect his friends from Vecna. He was wrongly accused of being a murderer, and much of Hawkins blamed him for the town's destruction. But it was Vecna who caused the rifts that tore Hawkins apart. Eddie was one of the few who were actively trying to protect more people from falling victim to Vecna and other horrors from the Upside Down.
Even after his heroic act, Eddie is still viewed as a villain, with no chance for the full truth to come out. Stranger Things: One Way or Another, a new book tie-in, adds a layer of sadness to Eddie's fate. The story is set two months after Vecna's 'earthquake,' between seasons 4 and 5, and focuses on Nancy, Jonathan, and Robin as they graduate from high school in the spring of 1986. Many residents have left Hawkins, especially after so many had fallen victim to various dangers plaguing Hawkins, like Eddie.
During the graduation ceremony, while students who died are remembered, Eddie's name is conspicuously absent. Nancy is understandably upset, not only remembering Barb but also the town's continued blame of Eddie as if he were truly responsible for the death and destruction:
"You save Hawkins and what's your reward? Everyone in town curses your name and tries to forget you ever existed."
But here's where it gets controversial... The fact that the book mentions Eddie during graduation is a tragic callback to season 4. Eddie should have graduated in 1984, but due to circumstances, he was still a senior when season 4 came around. He aimed to graduate in 1986, the same year as Nancy, Robin, and Jonathan, and considered it "[his] year," hoping to escape Hawkins and build a life. His last words to Dustin, as he died, were a poignant expression of his hopes to graduate.
Tragically, he never got to graduate or leave Hawkins. One Way or Another reveals that Eddie wasn't even honored during graduation. While his friends know the truth, Dustin continues Eddie's legacy in season 5, making him a target. He feels honoring his friend's memory is essential, especially since Hawkins may never know the truth.
Volume 1 of Stranger Things season 5 is now available on Netflix. Volume 2 will be released on December 25, followed by the series finale on December 31.
What are your thoughts on Eddie's fate and the town's reaction? Do you think Dustin is right to keep Eddie's memory alive, even if it puts him at risk? Share your opinions in the comments below!
