The long-awaited premiere of Stranger Things season five has finally arrived, with the first four episodes released on November 27, 2023. Fans have eagerly anticipated the return of the beloved series, but one particular aspect has dominated discussions: the relationship between Will Byers and Mike Wheeler.
With the introduction of new plot twists and character developments, viewers are left pondering the future of “Byler,” the fan-created name for the Will and Mike pairing. The initial episodes provided plenty of action, including the return of Kali Prasad, also known as Eight, and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Max and the Demogorgon threats in Hawkins. Yet, the most significant revelation came from Will, portrayed by Noah Schnapp, who discovered he possesses secret powers during an intense encounter with Vecna, played by Jamie Campbell Bower.
Despite the excitement surrounding Will’s newfound abilities, fans hoping for a declaration of love between Will and Mike, played by Finn Wolfhard, may have left the premiere feeling disappointed. Will’s feelings for Mike remain unspoken, leaving the potential for a romantic connection uncertain. Online, the ship name “Byler” seemed distant from reality for many fans.
Nevertheless, some viewers have begun to speculate that there may still be hope for “Byler” enthusiasts. Earlier in the season, a poignant conversation between Will and Robin Buckley, portrayed by Maya Hawke, touched on themes of sexuality, particularly after Will witnessed Robin sharing a tender moment with her girlfriend, Vickie, played by Amybeth McNulty. This discussion may foreshadow future developments in Will’s emotional journey.
In a notable exchange between Will and Mike, Mike encourages Will to embrace his innate powers, comparing him to a wizard. “In real life, you’re more like a sorcerer,” Mike tells him. This moment resonates with Will, ultimately empowering him during the climactic showdown against Vecna in the fourth episode. As Will taps into his abilities, Mike watches with admiration, sparking hope among fans that Will’s feelings for Mike may surface in the second volume of the season.
Social media has been abuzz with reactions, with some fans declaring, “I don’t want to hear ANY of you tell me Byler isn’t canon, that boy is in love like a puppy,” while others express optimism about the strength of their bond. The emotional weight of these moments has led many to believe that the connection between Will and Mike will deepen as the season progresses.
In a recent interview with Attitude magazine, Wolfhard appeared to temper expectations regarding a romantic relationship between the characters. He suggested that such a development “wouldn’t feel earned,” emphasizing the importance of authenticity in storytelling. “What’s so great about the show is that people are able to sort of feed themselves and be accepted for who they are,” he remarked.
As the first four episodes of Stranger Things season five are now available for streaming on Netflix, fans eagerly await the next installment, set to premiere on December 25, 2023 in the US and December 26, 2023 in the UK. The grand finale is scheduled for December 31, 2023 in the US and January 1, 2024 in the UK. The unfolding storylines and character arcs promise to keep audiences engaged and speculating about the future of Will and Mike’s relationship.
