Noah Schnapp Says ‘Stranger Things’ Helped Him Embrace His Identity Ahead of Final Season

Key Points

• Noah Schnapp says portraying Will Byers played a major role in his personal identity journey.
• The actor told GQ that Will’s storyline closely mirrored his own experiences growing up.
• Schnapp, who came out in 2023, says the show helped him understand and accept himself.
• Will’s sexuality will be a central plot point in the upcoming final season.
• Stranger Things Season 5 premieres on Netflix this November.

Noah Schnapp Reflects on How ‘Stranger Things’ Shaped His Identity

As Stranger Things prepares to enter its final chapter, star Noah Schnapp is looking back on how the series transformed not only his career but also his personal life. In a new interview with GQ, the actor revealed that playing Will Byers helped him embrace his identity and navigate his own coming‑of‑age journey.

Schnapp, who joined the show as a child, said the role became deeply intertwined with his real‑life growth over nearly a decade in the spotlight.

Growing Up Alongside Will Byers

Schnapp explained that Will’s emotional arc—particularly the character’s struggle with identity—resonated with him on a personal level.

“Seeing how the world receives Will, and embraces him, has taught me through the years to feel OK in who I am,” he told the magazine.

The actor publicly came out as gay in 2023, and he credits the series with helping him understand not just his sexuality, but his broader sense of self.

Will’s Storyline Takes Center Stage in the Final Season

Fans have long speculated about Will Byers’ sexuality, with the show dropping subtle hints throughout its run. Schnapp confirmed that this theme will be explored more directly in the upcoming final season, though he avoided revealing specific plot details.

The decision to spotlight Will’s journey reflects the show’s commitment to telling emotionally grounded stories—even amid its supernatural chaos.

A Universal Message for Anyone Who Feels Different

While Will’s storyline has been especially meaningful to LGBTQ+ viewers, Schnapp believes its impact is far more universal.

“It doesn’t resonate with queer people, it resonates with all people who feel different,” he said.

The actor emphasized that the character’s struggle speaks to anyone who has ever felt out of place, reinforcing one of the show’s core themes: acceptance.

What Happens Next?

With Stranger Things set to premiere its final season this November, anticipation is building around how Will’s story—and the series as a whole—will conclude. Schnapp’s reflections add emotional weight to the finale, highlighting how fiction can shape real‑world identity and connection.