Stranger Things fans think season 5's standout character is hilarious newcomer Derek Turnbow, and we agree

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Derek is the hero we didn't know we needed

Derek Turnbow in Stranger Things season 5
(Image credit: netflix)

When the first character posters for Stranger Things season 5 were released, many fans were confused as to who the new kid wearing the rainbow-striped T-shirt was, only for him to become everybody's favorite character.

Some spoilers follow for Stranger Things season 5 volume 1, so turn back now if you haven't seen it, and check out our Stranger Things season 5 volume 1 review.

Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler in Stranger Things season 5

(Image credit: Netflix)

So, who is he? Derek is a potty-mouthed boy in Holly Wheeler's class. Later, Holly is kidnapped and taken to the Upside Down at the hands of her imaginary friend called Mr. Whatsit, who turns out to be Henry Creel, aka Vecna. As Will starts to investigate Mr Whatsit, he finds out that he has also been trying to manipulate Derek. So, naturally, the group drugs and kidnaps Derek in order to save him from Holly's fate.

After a slight struggle, Derek comes around and agrees to help the group. The young boy puts on his 'delightful Derek' persona and convinces other kids who have been in contact with Mr. Whatsit to escape military confinement with him. Unfortunately, Derek's heroic act didn't fully pay off, as Vecna was still able to break into the real world and have his Demogorgons take the kids from the many hiding spots they were stored in (for more on that, read our Stranger Things season 5 volume 1 ending explained), including Derek. Will he step up to the plate once again and help his classmates in the Upside Down? We will have to wait for volume 1.

Stranger Things season 5 volume 1 is out on Netflix, with volume 2 set to arrive on Christmas Day. See our Stranger Things season release schedule for exact timings. For more, check out our list of the best Netflix shows to stream right now.

Megan Garside
Megan Garside
Junior Social Media Editor, GamesRadar+

I'm the Junior Social Media Editor here at GamesRadar+, handling all of Total Film's social platforms. However, I also write, covering all things film and TV for the site's entertainment section. I joined GamesRadar+ in 2023 and have been here ever since. I previously worked in communications after graduating with an MA in journalism. In my spare time, you can find me binging horror movies or getting lost in a cosy little game on my Switch.

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