Jamie Campbell Bower makes surprise Broadway cameo in Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Jamie Campbell Bower thrilled theatergoers with a surprise appearance during a recent Broadway performance of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at New York City’s Marquis Theatre. The unannounced cameo marked Bower’s Broadway debut and sent shockwaves through the audience of fans.

The stage production serves as a prequel to Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things, exploring events in Hawkins long before the timeline of the show. Bower appeared during the final moments of the performance, briefly reprising his role as Henry Creel, also known as Vecna, creating a direct and unexpected connection to the television series.

Typically, the character of Henry is portrayed by another actor throughout the play. Bower’s appearance during the climactic scene, involving Henry’s encounter with a young Eleven in Dr. Brenner’s laboratory, took the audience by surprise and added an extra layer of authenticity to the production.

An emotional Jamie Campbell Bower takes a bow after making a surprise appearance to reprise his role as Henry Creel/Vecna in ‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow’ on Broadway tonight pic.twitter.com/Q73eThGing

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) December 20, 2025

The crowd responded with loud applause and a standing ovation, underscoring the emotional impact of the moment. Audience reactions quickly spread online, with fans praising the surprise as a thrilling crossover between the Stranger Things stage adaptation and the original series.

The cameo comes as anticipation continues to build around the final season of Stranger Things, further strengthening the connection between the franchise’s on-screen and on-stage storytelling. Bower’s unexpected Broadway moment has since been hailed as a highlight for fans of both theater and the Netflix phenomenon.