Is This the End of ‘Stranger Things’: Unpacking the ‘Conformity Gate’ Theory

Key Takeaways:

• The "Conformity Gate" fan theory suggests that the final episode of Stranger Things was not the true ending, but rather an illusion created by Vecna.
• Fans believe that the happy ending was a facade and that a true finale, Episode 9, was supposed to be released on January 7.
• The theory is based on various Easter eggs, coincidences, and inconsistencies throughout Season 5.
• Netflix has not announced any plans for an Episode 9, and the Duffer brothers have denied shooting multiple endings.
• Fans are looking forward to a behind-the-scenes documentary, an animated series, and a live-action spin-off.

Introduction to the Conformity Gate Theory
The "Conformity Gate" fan theory has been circulating on social media since the final episode of Stranger Things streamed on Netflix on New Year’s Eve. The theory claims that the happy ending the Hawkins crew received as they moved on with their lives was actually an illusion created by Vecna, and that the true finale, Episode 9, was going to be released by Netflix on January 7. The theory has been dubbed "Conformity Gate" because the conclusion in the epilogue represents a kind of forced conformity that goes against the show’s core themes, which include breaking cycles and defying control.

The Origins of the Theory
The theory originated from a combination of factors, including a teaser video released by Netflix that hinted at an upcoming event on January 7. The video featured a narrator saying, "Sometimes, the universe shows you a sign… You can brush it off, call it a coincidence, but I know you got some questions. Lucky you, your future’s on its way. Even when you’re not looking, it finds you. So go on. All you gotta do is ask." Fans also believed that January 7 was a significant date because it’s Orthodox Christmas, and all of the Stranger Things Season 5 episode drops have happened on major holidays.

Easter Eggs and Coincidences
Fans have pointed out several Easter eggs and coincidences throughout Season 5 that support the "Conformity Gate" theory. For example, in the finale, almost every single person in the graduation scene had their hands crossed in the exact same way as Vecna. Others noticed that a prop dial pointer at the base of the transmission tower of the WSQK radio station changed from gray in Episode 1 to red in Episode 5, which could signify that characters are in Vecna’s mind. An image circulating on social media from the finale appears to show that when the Dungeons & Dragons binders of Max, Lucas, Will, Dustin, and Mike are lined up on a shelf, they spell out "X A LIE," which led some fans to believe that the defeat of Vecna in Dimension X was a lie too.

Response from the Duffer Brothers
The Duffer brothers have denied shooting multiple endings to the series. In an interview with the U.K. entertainment site Capital Buzz, Matt Duffer said, "Oh no, I love when I hear people do that, but I’m like, ‘How do you have the time?’ Oh my God! The energy to A, write it, and then shoot it. Are you crazy? No. No." This statement has not deterred fans, who continue to speculate about the possibility of an alternate ending.

The Future of Stranger Things
While the "Conformity Gate" theory may not be proven, fans have plenty to look forward to in the future. Netflix has announced a behind-the-scenes documentary, One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things Season 5, which will be released on January 12. Additionally, an animated series, Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, and a live-action spin-off that focuses on the rock that gave young Henry Creel his powers in the cave are in the works. These upcoming projects will likely keep fans engaged and speculating about the world of Stranger Things for months to come.

Conclusion
The "Conformity Gate" theory has sparked a lively debate among Stranger Things fans, with some convinced that the true finale is still to come. While the Duffer brothers have denied shooting multiple endings, the theory has highlighted the show’s clever use of Easter eggs and coincidences. Whether or not the theory is proven, it has added to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the future of Stranger Things. As fans continue to speculate and discuss the show, one thing is certain: the world of Stranger Things will remain a topic of fascination and intrigue for years to come.