Does This Popular 'Stranger Things' Fan Theory Really Hold Water?
By Andrew Sanford | News | October 31, 2025
One of the highlights of the fourth season of Stranger Things was how it skillfully connected past storylines. The main antagonist, Vecna, was seamlessly integrated into earlier seasons, revealing a history with Eleven and the Hawkins kids. What first appeared as a new villain was actually someone we had encountered before, albeit in different forms. The execution felt almost like a magic trick.
Some may argue this approach involved retconning parts of the story. For example, Vecna was shown as the true mastermind behind the smaller monsters, controlling them as mindless servants, rather than the Demogorgon from season one being the source of evil. This idea hasn't been officially confirmed by the show's creators but has sparked much fan debate.
Fan Evidence and Theories
Fans have revisited the very first episode, piecing together subtle clues that might have been overlooked initially. One of the key storylines is Will Byers' disappearance, thought to involve the Demogorgon. However, the creature's behavior in season one differs from the monsters shown later.
"It’s sneaking around and intentional."
This has led to speculation that Vecna, not the Demogorgon, was behind Will's abduction, which would change the understanding of the monster’s role in Hawkins’ terror.
Unconfirmed but Compelling
While no official statement has clarified these fan theories, the evidence fans present is persuasive and has fueled much imagination within the community.
Summary
The theory that Vecna was responsible for the early troubles in Hawkins presents a fresh perspective on the series’ mythology, blending new revelations with past mysteries.
"That was committed by Vecna, not the demagorgon that menaced the town in season one."
Whether this was masterful planning or retroactive adjustments remains a subject of debate among fans.
Author’s summary: The evolving Stranger Things storyline reshapes the monster mythos, suggesting Vecna may have caused fears once attributed solely to the Demogorgon.