Winona Ryder Expresses Her Pride in Her Younger 'Stranger Things' Co‑Stars

Actress Winona Ryder expressed pride in her younger co-stars on Stranger Things for the way they have managed fame in the era of social media. Speaking in a November 2025 episode of the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Ryder, who began acting as a child in Hollywood, reflected on how many cast members grew up while filming the show.

Ryder highlighted her admiration for how the young actors handle online attention. "I didnt grow up with the internet or social media. Its a completely different world. Im really proud of the kids because I watched them each learn how to step away from it," she explained. Ryder has portrayed Joyce Byers since the series premiered on Netflix in 2016.

She specifically mentioned Caleb McLaughlin, 24, who plays Lucas Sinclair, noting how he took a break from his phone. "I remember Caleb just turned his off. He said, God, it feels amazing," Ryder recalled.

Ryder Highlights Their Talent and Screen Presence

During the podcast, Ryder also emphasized the importance of her younger co-stars' talent to the shows success. "Netflix is fortunate to have them. Their abilities and presence are what make this show remarkable," she said. Ryder expressed a protective sentiment, considering the cast's young age during filming. "Its essential for them to enjoy these formative years in an environment free from overwhelming outside noise," said the 54-year-old actress.

Stranger Things Cast Praise Ryder

In a November 2025 Entertainment Tonight interview, several Stranger Things actors spoke warmly of Ryder. Charlie Heaton, 31, who plays Jonathan Byers, described her as "very awesome" and "super generous," noting her thoughtfulness in giving gifts. Noah Schnapp, 21, who portrays Will Byers, shared that Ryder once gave him a Cher concert T-shirt after he mentioned his admiration for the singer. "Shes a sweetheart, fun, and full of interesting stories," he said. Jamie Campbell Bower, who plays Vecna, also called Ryder "amazing."

The first four episodes of the fifth and final season of Stranger Things were released on Netflix on November 26, 2025.

This article was originally published by Parade on November 30, 2025.

Author's Commentary: Winona Ryder on Stranger Things' Young Cast

Winona Ryder's reflections on the younger Stranger Things cast provide insight into the challenges of growing up in the spotlight today. Having started her career as a child actor, Ryder understands the pressures of fame, particularly in an era dominated by social media. Her comments highlight both admiration and concern for how the cast manages public attention.

Ryder praised Caleb McLaughlin's conscious decision to disconnect from his phone, noting it as an example of the cast learning to navigate digital pressures responsibly. She emphasized that the show’s success relies not just on the storyline but on the talent and screen presence of its young actors, describing their abilities as “what make this show remarkable.”

The actress also conveyed a protective stance, stressing the importance of allowing young performers to enjoy formative years without overwhelming outside interference. Her perspective underscores a broader conversation about the balance between professional success and personal well-being in modern entertainment.

Overall, Ryder's commentary reinforces the respect she holds for her co-stars and highlights the responsibility of both actors and audiences in supporting a healthy environment for young talent on high-profile projects.

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• Why Winona Ryder Says She’s 'Really Proud' of Her Younger 'Stranger Things' Co‑Stars