Summary (tl;dr)

Fans of Netflix's Stranger Things are actively signing a petition, dubbed "Cutgate," demanding the release of alleged cut scenes from the recently launched Season 5, Volume 2, due to widespread dissatisfaction with the episodes' plot and character development.

Essential Background

Stranger Things is a highly popular science fiction horror drama series on Netflix, known for its nostalgic 1980s setting and compelling storyline. The series, which debuted in 2016, is currently in its fifth and final season. Prior to the release of Season 5, Volume 2, there was significant anticipation among fans for the conclusion of various character arcs and storylines. Season 5, Volume 2 was released on December 25, 2025.

The Full Story

A "stranger things petition" is currently trending following the Christmas Day release of Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 2, with over 110,000 fans signing a Change.org petition calling on Netflix and the Duffer Brothers to release rumored cut scenes. Fans are expressing significant dissatisfaction with the new episodes, citing issues with plot holes, the handling of Will Byers' coming-out scene, and a general feeling that the season did not meet expectations established over the show's nearly decade-long run. An anonymous source, allegedly with insider knowledge, has circulated a Google document detailing these purported cut scenes, which reportedly include deeper interactions between Will and Mike and a "fake-out death" for Will, fueling the "Cutgate" controversy across social media.

Why It Matters

The trending petition highlights significant fan investment and strong reactions to the concluding chapters of a long-running and beloved series. The "Cutgate" movement reflects a broader concern among viewers about creative control and the potential for streaming platforms or creators to alter narratives, especially in highly anticipated finales. This backlash could impact Netflix's relationship with its dedicated fanbase and influence future decisions regarding content delivery and fan engagement for major productions. The large number of signatures also demonstrates the power of online fandom to mobilize and voice collective disappointment, potentially pressuring content creators to address viewer concerns.

Geographic Location

• Virtual/Online (global fan petition organized via Change.org, addressed to Netflix and the Duffer Brothers)
• Los Gatos, Santa Clara County, California, United States (headquarters of Netflix, the streaming platform for Stranger Things)
• United States (primary production location and creative hub for Stranger Things)