The excitement surrounding the final season of Stranger Things is palpable, as fans eagerly anticipate the series finale set to air tomorrow. Will the forces of good, bolstered by science, supernatural abilities, a love for junk food, and strategic gameplay inspired by Dungeons & Dragons, ultimately vanquish evil? This question looms large as Hawkins' beleaguered heroes hope to finally find peace in their lives. In these fleeting hours filled with uncertainty, let’s take a light-hearted approach and rank all of the couples featured in the series. This ranking will include romantic pairings, friendships, and even more unconventional connections, based on the chemistry they share.
We’ll begin our countdown with those couples that spark the least enthusiasm before ascending to the ones that ignite the most passion.
10. The Wheelers
This marriage has seen better days; many fans remember Karen Wheeler's brief infatuation with Billy during his rebellious lifeguard phase—an affair that likely still lingers in her mind. Currently, it seems that no amount of shared activities, whether it's indulging in wine, playing golf, or battling demogorgons, can rekindle any flicker of romance between them.
9. Eleven and Mike
In season three, the gang spent a lot of time at the mall, showcasing the burgeoning love between Eleven and Mike. Despite Hopper's constant watchfulness, the couple managed to steal moments together for secret kisses. However, now that they are navigating high school life, their once fiery romance appears to have dimmed significantly. They may still share a close bond, but their reunions are marked by innocent hugs rather than passionate embraces. While Mike dreams of a future for Eleven that includes waterfalls, the current vibe between them feels more platonic than romantic.
8. Nancy and Jonathan
When it comes to Nancy and Jonathan, their relationship took a dramatic turn following a near-death experience, prompting them to realize that breaking up might be the healthiest option for both. After enduring a turbulent period filled with misunderstandings, their heartfelt conversation, which included Jonathan’s surprising “un-proposal,” brought a sense of relief. Though they will always share a connection, a future together as a married couple seems unlikely.
7. Hopper and Joyce
Hopper and Joyce have reached a comfortable rhythm in their relationship, although it’s tinged with the chaos that surrounds them. Having known each other since their high school days, they only recently embarked on a romantic journey. The question remains: Can they maintain their relationship once the turmoil that brought them together subsides? There are undeniable feelings present, yet the prospects for a lasting bond remain uncertain, especially considering Hopper’s struggles with darker thoughts.
6. Dr. Kay and Her Mission
Dr. Kay is unyielding in her quest to manipulate a superpowered captive into providing blood for pregnant women who are also held against their will, all in hopes of creating a new generation of super-soldiers to ensure American military dominance. While this may not reflect traditional love, it certainly demonstrates an intense level of commitment to her ambitious and morally questionable goals.
5. Max and Lucas
Max’s escape from Vecna's psychological grip wasn’t due to any musical intervention but was instead sparked by the reassuring touch of Lucas’s hand. His unwavering belief that she would awaken again proved vital. We sincerely hope these two young characters can maintain their relationship, but there’s a looming fear that they might fall prey to the same issues that plagued Nancy and Jonathan.
4. Steve and Dustin
Although Stranger Things has established itself as a safe haven for its characters, the bond between Steve and Dustin is purely platonic, devoid of romantic undertones. Their friendship has become one for the ages, especially after they learned the importance of expressing their feelings and addressing conflicts before resorting to physical confrontations. For their sake, let’s hope they never break another walkie-talkie, which serves as their lifeline to safety in the Upside Down.
3. Mr. Clarke (aka "Snookums") and the Librarian (aka "Sugar Lump")
Murray often pokes fun at Mr. Clarke’s affectionate nickname for his partner, possibly out of jealousy that romance has blossomed between two of Hawkins High School’s most quirky faculty members. We couldn’t be happier for Snookums and Sugar Lump, and we wish them all the best in their relationship.
2. Vecna and His Mission
While Dr. Kay remains fixated on her plans, she holds the option to abandon her course of action at any moment. In stark contrast, Vecna is deeply intertwined with his malevolent mission to merge the Abyss with Earth, using Hawkins as the epicenter of his dark ambitions. Although we may not fully grasp all the nuances of his motivations or his backstory, it’s clear that he is wholly dedicated to achieving his ominous goals. Together forever in darkness.
1. Robin and Vickie
Picture this: a cozy dinner and dessert at Enzo's. If Stranger Things fails to deliver this adorably plausible date for its most charming couple, Robin and Vickie, by the conclusion of the finale episode titled "The Rightside Up," we might just have to reconsider our Netflix subscriptions altogether!
Curious for more insights about the Stranger Things universe? Stay tuned for updates on upcoming Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases as well as the latest developments in the DC Universe and the future of Doctor Who!
