Stranger Things Animated Spinoff Failed to Chart

The second season of Tales from '85 missed the top 10 streaming list following its September release.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Animation

Graphic illustration of a glowing neon portal with flickering particles in a dark void, evoking an 80s supernatural aesthetic. — Netflix’s animated series Tales from '85, a spinoff of the Stranger Things franchise, has failed to break into the top 10 streaming charts after its September release. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Netflix has released the second season of its animated series Stranger Things: Tales from '85. The show has struggled to capture a broad audience, currently ranking at No. 56 on the United States streaming charts.

Why it matters

The spinoff attempts to pivot the popular franchise toward a younger demographic by softening the horror and gore typical of the original series. Its underwhelming performance suggests challenges in converting adult-oriented IP into successful children's programming.

The series currently holds a 43% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. It ranks at No. 56 on the United States Netflix charts, though it holds a stronger position at No. 7 in the platform's U.S. Kids Shows category.

The players

Netflix

This global streaming giant is the producer and distributor of the Stranger Things franchise.

The details

Designed as a lighter iteration of the flagship show, this animated series features the main characters battling monsters and a ghost. By toning down the horror elements, the production aims to make the Stranger Things universe accessible to younger viewers.

Season 1 of the series debuted on April 23, 2026.
The second season was released on September 17, 2026.
The stage play The First Shadow concludes its run between late 2026 and early 2027.

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Industry Dynamics

This animated series represents an attempt to expand the Stranger Things brand ecosystem through content diversification. Its lackluster performance highlights the difficulty of translating successful adult-rated IP into sustainable children's entertainment.

Viewers can currently access both seasons of the show on the Netflix platform. The series provides an alternative viewing option for younger audiences who may not be ready for the intense horror themes of the live-action episodes.

The takeaway

Franchise spin-offs often struggle when they pivot too far away from the core appeal of the original material. Fans looking for the signature tone of the series should keep an eye on upcoming live-action developments instead.