Stranger Things season 5 volume 2: Is Kali a hidden threat? Fans speculate about Eleven’s sister and a potential shocking twist in Hawkins

Since its debut in 2016, Stranger Things has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its mix of supernatural thrills, nostalgic 1980s references, and compelling characters. Now, with the arrival of its final and ultimate Season 5 Volume 2, the stakes are higher than ever, and fans are turning their attention to one of the show’s most mysterious and underrated characters, Eleven’s sister, Kali.

Kali, also known as “Eight,” is Eleven’s older “sister” with psychic abilities, introduced in Stranger Things Season 2. She first appears as a mysterious figure with the power to create illusions and a rebellious, vengeful streak.

Kali takes on a far larger role in Volume 2, and her presence has sparked debate over her true intentions. Trapped in a Hawkins Lab Upside Down version, the government harvested her blood to create a new generation of children with powers, leaving her skeptical that anyone, including El, can find a happy ending.


Volume 2 ended on a tense note, with Kali persuading El that the only way to break the “cycle” of children being exploited is for them to die, particularly during the mission to eliminate the Upside Down and Dimension X. Disturbingly, El appears to accept Kali’s plan.

According to the Cosmopolitan website, while Kali may be genuine, many fans suspect a hidden agenda. On Reddit, one user warned, “I’m concerned Kali will cross El last minute or try to save herself.” Another added, “I do not trust her at all. I’m halfway through [chapter] 7 and I don’t like her one bit.”

Hopper, too, remains skeptical of Kali, adding to the tension around her role. The Duffer brothers have revealed little about her true intentions.

Speaking to SFX magazine, Matt Duffer said, “Kali shifts things a lot for Eleven, and I think it'll be surprising for people to see how she ultimately fits into the story. We're excited about that, because it immediately changes the tone. And obviously, the way things ended with Hopper leaves a lot of tension between them.”