Behind-the-scenes footage reveals controversial browser tabs during finale writing, sparking debate about AI and Reddit's role in the conclusion.
The "Stranger Things" finale controversy has taken an unexpected turn. Fans analyzing Netflix's behind-the-scenes documentary claim they've spotted evidence that creators Matt and Ross Duffer used ChatGPT and Reddit while writing the show's divisive conclusion.
The allegations emerged after "One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5" premiered on Netflix on January 12. Screenshots from the two-hour documentary quickly went viral, with viewers pointing to what they believe are ChatGPT tabs visible on laptops during writers' room sessions.
"Duffer Brothers had a Reddit tab open while writing the Stranger Things 5 ending," one X user observed, sharing a screenshot that appeared to show the platform's distinctive orange logo on one of the browser tabs. The discovery prompted an immediate wave of criticism from fans questioning whether the creators relied on fan theories and AI assistance to craft the finale.
Things escalated when additional screenshots surfaced, allegedly showing multiple tabs with logos resembling ChatGPT's interface. "The Duffer brothers really used ChatGPT for this script," one frustrated fan wrote, while others claimed the potential use of AI explained why the finale felt incomplete to many viewers.
The timing couldn't be worse for the Duffers. The final episode currently holds a 53% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers expressing disappointment over perceived plot holes, unresolved character arcs, and what many considered an unsatisfying conclusion to the decade-long series.
Adding fuel to the fire, the documentary reveals that Ross Duffer admitted, "We went into production without having a finished script for the finale." This admission has intensified criticism about the show's conclusion, with many arguing that the lack of preparation shows in the final product.
The implication that the Duffers might've browsed Reddit for fan theories while writing the ending hasn't gone over well. "Who on Reddit is responsible for the terrible ending?" one user joked, while others suggested the creators pulled ideas from the wrong posts or that the subreddit unwittingly became a co-writer.
However, not everyone's convinced by the allegations. Several defenders have pointed out that the blurriness of the screenshots makes definitive identification nearly impossible. Some noted that the tabs in question have blue coloring, while ChatGPT's icon is typically transparent with black or white outlines.
Others reminded critics that ChatGPT wasn't as sophisticated when much of the finale's writing would have occurred. Plus, having a tab open doesn't necessarily mean it was used for scriptwriting—the tool has various legitimate uses beyond content generation.
The Duffers have previously stated they knew how the series would end long before filming began, which makes the Reddit theory particularly contentious. The documentary also revealed internal debates among the writing team, including discussions about whether to include creatures like demogorgons in the final battle—a decision that ultimately disappointed some viewers.
Representatives for Netflix and the Duffer Brothers haven't responded to requests for comment regarding the allegations. In the aftermath of the finale's release, Matt Duffer expressed regret about post-premiere interviews, stating, "I really shouldn't have done any of these postmortem interviews." The comment suggests he anticipated the backlash.
The controversy highlights growing concerns about AI's role in creative industries and the tension between fan engagement and artistic independence. It also demonstrates the intense scrutiny modern audiences apply to their favorite shows—nothing escapes analysis when thousands of dedicated viewers armed with pause buttons start investigating.
Whether the Duffers actually used ChatGPT or were simply browsing Reddit remains unclear. The evidence consists of blurry screenshots and circumstantial connections. Yet in the court of public opinion, perception often carries as much weight as proof.
As debate continues to rage across Reddit, X, and other platforms, one thing's certain: the "Stranger Things" fandom's attention to detail rivals even Eleven's supernatural powers. And when it comes to holding creators accountable, they're not backing down anytime soon.
