Stranger Things creators explain why Demogorgons were absent from the series finale

The Duffer Brothers address fan criticism and explain the in-universe reason Demogorgons were absent from the finale

The creators of Stranger Things have addressed fan questions surrounding the notable absence of Demogorgons in the series finale of Netflix’s hit sci-fi drama.

The show concluded its five-season run with the defeat of Vecna and the Mind Flayer, but longtime viewers were surprised to see the franchise’s original monster missing from the final battle.

Demogorgons played a central role in the first season, serving as the primary threat after kidnapping Will Byers and killing Barb Holland. Over subsequent seasons, however, their prominence declined as the series introduced larger antagonists, including the Mind Flayer and later Vecna. Despite their reduced presence, Demogorgons remain one of the most recognizable creatures in the Stranger Things universe, making their absence in the finale a point of criticism among fans.

In an interview with The Wrap, co-creator Matt Duffer explained that the decision was both narrative and creative. According to Duffer, Vecna did not anticipate the heroes’ attack and had no need to deploy Demogorgons when the Mind Flayer itself could confront them directly. He also clarified that Demogorgons still exist within the Upside Down but are not organized as a coordinated force.

Duffer added that the creative team was mindful of “Demogorgon fatigue,” noting that the monsters had already played a major role earlier in the season. The finale, he said, was designed to keep its focus on Vecna and the Mind Flayer, both of whom had been largely absent during parts of the final season.

Fan reactions to the explanation have been mixed. While some viewers criticized the reasoning on social media, others praised the finale for prioritizing emotional resolution over spectacle. Despite the debate, the series finale has received largely positive reviews, marking the end of one of Netflix’s most successful original shows.