The series finale of Stranger Things has left fans debating the fate of Kali, a character portrayed by Linnea Berthelsen. The conclusion of the fifth season, released on July 1, 2023, on Netflix, resolved many ongoing mysteries but raised significant questions regarding Kali’s survival after a dramatic confrontation in the Upside Down.
The final season of the acclaimed series experienced a notably lower body count compared to earlier seasons, which saw the untimely deaths of characters like Eddie Munson and Barb Holland. Despite this, the fate of key characters, particularly Kali and Eleven, remains shrouded in ambiguity, prompting speculation among the fanbase.
Kali’s storyline took a pivotal turn during the season’s climax when she urged Eleven to sacrifice themselves to end a cycle of violence associated with their powers. Concerned that survival would lead to further exploitation by Dr. Kay, played by Linda Hamilton, Kali’s character grappled with the heavy implications of their abilities.
As the conflict escalated in the Upside Down, Kali, Eleven, and David Harbour‘s character, Hopper, attempted to defeat the formidable Vecna, portrayed by Jamie Campbell Bower. In a critical moment, Hopper managed to rescue Eleven but left Kali vulnerable. Akers, played by Alex Breaux, confronted Kali with lethal intent, aiming to eliminate Eleven himself.
Despite efforts to thwart Akers, including a bomb deployed by Brett Gelman‘s character, Murray Bauman, it was insufficient to save Kali. The scene culminated with Eleven cradling Kali as she succumbed to her injuries. This moment has led to various theories among fans, with some suggesting that Kali and Eleven may have orchestrated a plan to fake Kali’s death as part of a larger strategy against Vecna.
Speculations Surrounding Kali’s Fate
Theories regarding Kali’s fate intensified when Finn Wolfhard‘s character, Mike, proposed that Kali utilized her powers to stage her own death. This speculation emerged after a poignant exchange between Kali and Hopper, where Hopper emphasized the importance of community and support, suggesting that Kali was moved by the idea of Eleven having a family who cared for her.
While many fans initially speculated that Kali might betray her allies by secretly collaborating with Vecna, her actions in the finale appeared to signal redemption. By sacrificing herself, Kali offered Eleven a chance at a life free from isolation and fear, a stark contrast to her previous existence.
The Duffer Brothers, creators of the series, infused the finale with themes of sacrifice and connection. In discussing the climactic destruction of the interdimensional portal, Matt Duffer drew parallels to the war film The Bridge on the River Kwai, stating that the characters’ mission to destroy the bridge connecting Hawkins to an evil dimension was a vital narrative element they had developed over several years.
Matt Duffer also highlighted the importance of providing each character with a unique resolution in the finale, aiming for “each of the characters to find happiness but in their own specific ways.” As fans continue to unravel the complexities of the final season, the ambiguity surrounding Kali’s fate remains a poignant aspect of the series’ conclusion.
As Stranger Things season 5 continues to stream on Netflix, discussions about character fates and unresolved storylines will likely persist, showcasing the profound impact the series has had on its audience.
