Boycott calls rise against ‘Stranger Things’

• Fans call for Netflix boycott over Noah Schnapp’s Gaza comments as social media outrage grows ahead of Stranger Things Season 5.

A growing social media campaign is urging viewers to boycott the upcoming fifth season of Netflix's hit series Stranger Things, citing cast member Noah Schnapp’s conduct and comments regarding the 'Israeli' genocide on Gaza. 

The boycott movement, gaining traction on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, focuses on allegations that Hollywood studios are applying a double standard by protecting Schnapp while penalizing other actors who have expressed pro-Palestinian sentiments.

The Controversy

The backlash stems from a video that circulated online in late 2023, appearing to show Schnapp, who plays Will Byers, laughing with friends holding stickers that read "Zionism is Sexy" and "Hamas is Isis." Critics condemned the footage as callous, particularly in light of the rising death toll in Gaza. Social media posts have labeled Schnapp a "genocide supporter" and a "Zionist," central messages in the boycott campaign.

One viral graphic states, "Before you decide to watch this, remember that Noah Schnapp is a Zionist and a Genocide supporter," while another advises, "Simply do not watch the new season."

Allegations of a Double Standard

Campaigners argue that Schnapp is being treated differently from other high-profile actors. They point to Melissa Barrera, who was fired from the Scream franchise after posting comments on social media describing the violence in Gaza as "genocide" and "ethnic cleansing," and Susan Sarandon, who faced professional consequences following remarks at a pro-Palestine rally.

"While Susan Sarandon and Melissa Barrera were fired, Noah Schnapp is allowed to keep his job(s) despite his disgusting comments," reads one widely shared post. "Welcome to Hollywood!"

The Boycott Strategy

Organizers are encouraging fans to skip the final season of Stranger Things entirely to send a financial message to Netflix and the show’s creators. Drawing comparisons to recent consumer boycotts targeting major brands, they emphasize that viewership numbers are the ultimate leverage for streaming platforms. One campaign poster states: "Every viewer counts. Show them we have power."

Schnapp’s Response

In January 2024, Schnapp released a video statement addressing the backlash. He said his "thoughts and beliefs have been so far misconstrued" and expressed a desire for peace, stating, "I only want peace and safety and security for all innocent people affected by this conflict." He also mentioned having conversations with friends of Palestinian background and reiterated, "I stand against any killing of any innocent people."

Despite the clarification, many activists remain unconvinced, viewing the statement as damage control to protect the show’s viewership ahead of its highly anticipated finale.

Netflix has not commented on the boycott calls. The fifth and final season of Stranger Things is currently in production, with no official release date announced.