Why didn't 'Stranger Things' land a Golden Globe nomination? The eligibility window might have the answer
'Stranger Things' fans all over the world are now faced with disheartening news. As the popular Netflix original show marches through its fifth and final instalment, it goes without saying that expectations for an epic finale are at an all-time high, and the buzz is well warranted. 'Stranger Things' has been around for a decade, and it took Netflix to new heights of fame, which the streamer currently enjoys. Nevertheless, the nominations for the 2026 Golden Globes are out, and 'Stranger Things' didn't receive a single nod. Here's what might've caused the snub.
The streaming platform giant decided on a phased episodic release schedule for the final season of the sci-fi ensemble cast show. While the first four episodes dropped on November 26, the next three are scheduled to arrive on Christmas Day, followed by the finale episode hitting Netflix on New Year's Eve. This pattern has been set with an aim to optimize the cultural momentum of the show, to the extent that it stays on top of everything else this holiday season. As per a previous report by Variety, the show itself was submitted for the category of best television series (drama). Apart from this, all performers had listed themselves for best performance by an actor/actress in a supporting role on television.
Fans of the show have been quick to respond to the Golden Globes snub, and several of them took to Reddit to express their reasons. One user wrote, "That's honestly shocking. I didn't expect any nominations for the performances (not that I think they are bad, but because I think there are others with more passion), but I really was expecting a nom for the season, considering it is the last time they can nominate it." Another user remarked, "As for acting, the Globes combines supporting comedy, drama, and limited, so it was predictable the Stranger Things cast gets shut out since there are just other better/more competitive performances." A third user reasoned, "If I'm wrong, please correct me, but I think the release came after the eligibility period to enter the competition. I believe it will be considered for the next ceremony."
While questions surrounding the writing and performances of 'Stranger Things' Season 5 are most certainly up for debate, it is reasonable to believe that the show missed the nomination window for the upcoming 83rd Golden Globes. As per reports, the deadline was on October 31 this year, and the first episodes of the Netflix show's final season dropped on November 26. This isn't to say that the fifth season wouldn't be getting its due recognition, with the 2027 edition of the awards still in view.
In terms of television shows, the current year has been unusually ripe. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, 'Stranger Things' was snubbed in favour of several other prestige shows like 'The Pitt', 'Pluribus', 'The Diplomat', 'The White Lotus', and 'Slow Horses'. To date, 'Stranger Things' has scored a total of 57 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, with 12 wins, and four Golden Globe nominations. All previously released episodes of 'Stranger Things' are available for streaming exclusively on Netflix. The 83rd Golden Globe Awards will be held on Sunday, January 11, at 8 PM at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles.
