The seemingly open-ended climax of Stranger Things had all viewers spiraling. And now, Caleb McLaughlin, who plays Lucas Sinclair on the show, has given us his devastating three-word verdict on Eleven’s fate: “Rest in Peace.” (via The View)

During his appearance on the show, McLaughlin was asked if Eleven was alive or dead, and the actor didn’t hesitate. He said, “I think she’s gone,” but also clarified that it’s his interpretation as an actor on the show, and his character, Lucas, probably believes she is alive. 

Now, let’s look at what he said about the Duffer brothers’ vision, followed by our interpretation of the ending. 

Caleb McLaughlin on Duffer Brothers’ Vision for Eleven’s Fate

His blunt response in the beginning is a bit shocking, but when he paints the full picture, it comes off as more nuanced and layered. Here’s what he said about the Duffer brothers’ intentions with the ending (via The View). 

But I think what the Duffers wanted to do was leave a level of optimism that the show always had. The kids brought so much to the show, and they’re the heart of the show, and they brought everyone into this fantastical world and didn’t want anyone to leave in despair. So they gave everything that hope.

So, in a narrative sense, the ending leans more towards hope, and not tragedy. But McLaughlin does draw a clear line between the larger interpretation of the story and his perspective of the events as an actor. 

Stranger Things Ending: Is Eleven Alive or Dead? 

A still from Stranger Things | Credits: Netflix

So, is Eleven actually dead? Technically, the answer remains intentionally unresolved. They’ve left in evidence for both arguments, and people have been picking their sides and only looking at parts that support their desired outcome. 

But for the most part, Eleven surviving seems like the group’s way of coping with reality. Similar to how they used the stories of D&D as an escape from their real world. Believing that she’s still alive gives them a sense of hope, that maybe their friend is still alive, and that’s what gives them the courage to move on to better things in life. 

Maybe, deep down, they’re aware of the truth, but an alternate outcome, which could be somewhat true, is their emotional closure. It’s also a litmus test for the fans, because believing in either possibility also says a lot about us as viewers. 

So, what do you think happened to Eleven at the end? 

Stranger Things is currently streaming on Netflix (USA). 
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire