# Stranger Things Franchise Expands with 2028 Live-Action Prequel Series Netflix announces Other Worlds, a new live-action prequel set in 1950s Indiana. - **Source:** [Collider](https://collider.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [entertainment](https://brifing.si/c/entertainment) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/a7cb9fae-9832-4fe1-bfb8-cf4c04f92fbe ## Franchise Expansion Confirmed Netflix has officially announced a new live-action spin-off titled Other Worlds: A Stranger Things Adventure. This upcoming series is scheduled for a 2028 release, marking the franchise's return to live-action storytelling. The announcement follows the conclusion of the original series, which aired its final episodes just last year on the streaming platform. ## Setting and Timeline Shift Unlike the original series centered in Hawkins, this prequel will take place in Marion, Indiana. The narrative is confirmed to be set in the 1950s, exploring a completely different era and mythology. This shift allows the creators to venture into new thematic territory while maintaining the core DNA of the original show's supernatural legacy. ## Key Creative Team Involved The project is co-created by Kate Trefry alongside the Duffer Brothers, Ross and Matt. Joe Wright has been tapped to direct the series, bringing his distinct vision to the franchise. Shawn Levy returns as an executive producer through his 21Laps banner, ensuring continuity in the production quality and creative spirit of the series. ## Production and Casting Status While the teaser trailer has been released to generate anticipation, specific casting details remain strictly under wraps. The production team is keeping plot specifics confidential for the time being, focusing on the 1950s setting. Fans are currently waiting for further announcements regarding the ensemble cast that will lead this new adventure. ## Shawn Levy's Strategic Role Executive producer Shawn Levy expressed excitement about continuing the storytelling legacy of the flagship series. Levy, who recently directed major projects like Deadpool & Wolverine, is balancing this role with other high-profile commitments. His involvement signals a significant investment from Netflix in maintaining the high production standards established by the original show. ## Legacy of the Original Series The original Stranger Things ran for five seasons over a decade, cementing its status as a global streaming phenomenon. Its finale was a major event, even receiving a limited theatrical release on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. This success proved that Netflix properties could effectively bridge the gap between streaming and cinema. ## Existing Franchise Ecosystem The franchise has already begun its expansion beyond the main series with the animated spin-off, Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85. That series, set between the events of Seasons 2 and 3, has already completed two seasons. The status of a potential third season for the animated project remains currently undecided by the network. ## Future Outlook for Fans With the 2028 release date set, viewers have a long wait ahead for the new live-action installment. In the meantime, the original five seasons remain available on Netflix for audiences to revisit. The industry will be watching closely to see if this prequel can replicate the massive cultural impact of the original. ## Sources covering this story - https://collider.com/stranger-things-other-worlds-live-action-prequel-series-2028/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._