Stranger Things characters are not only imaginary but are emotional support lynchpins to the fandom. Every tongue rising against them receives criticism, even if it is Gaten Matarazzo himself.

When storylines become objects of great devotion over a decade, viewers begin appreciating the quiet friendships and sci-fi perils of the Hawkins kids with a sentimental approach. Each gaze, gesture, and unspoken word transpires in a fond extended imagination and ships. 

With Gaten Matarazzo sharing his two cents on such a critically sensitive hot topic, the internet has exploded like a thunderclap.

Digital theorists and avid Stranger Things fans jumped to Byler's defense following Gaten Matarazzo's interpretation of the interactions between Mike Wheeler and Will Byers. He deemed the characters good friends instead of a potential romantic pairing, which largely antagonizes the fandom's wishful thinking.

"I also find the Byler stuff very funny. I see them as just very good friends. Will is going through his own journey, the way that a lot of young queer kids do in small towns, especially back in the day," the actor who plays Dustin Henderson in the Netflix sci-fi epic told Elite Daily, while speaking on the most popular fan theories. 

Matarazzo referred to the Byler dynamic as something more powerful than voyeuristically romantic. He suggested that Will’s character arc shows a universal experience many LGBTQ+ kids go through, i.e., having a one-sided secret crush on a friend and being unable to discuss it.

Matarazzo’s remarks came at a time when fans were eagerly awaiting the release of Stranger Things Season 5's final episodes, hoping the Byler pairing would be finally made canonical, especially after the earlier indications of Will’s feelings in Season 4. His rejection of the romantic interpretation came as a lethal blow to many.

Who Is Patty Newby? Why Are Fans Convinced She Will Return in 'Stranger Things' Season 5 Part 2?

And now the Byler fandom is counter-attacking Matarazzo, sharing their grievances. 

Many Stranger Things fans feel like their understanding of the characters’ emotional growth was being dismissed. The fans who support the Byler ship X claimed that his remarks overshadowed the queer interpretation of the story and the emotional impact that fans associate with their chosen couple. 

At the same time, several fans backed Gaten Matarazzo up to let him express his opinions, calling his interpretation of Byler relatable.

The disappointment was not the only cause of this wild reaction from the fandom. For the LGBTQ+ viewers of Stranger Things, the storyline of Will and Mike finally getting together means not only shipping but also a significant representation in a mainstream show. For them, it was very unkind to say that they are just buddies, as they believe there is a greater depth and subtlety in their connection. 

How Long Is the 'Stranger Things' Finale? Do You Need to Watch It in Two Parts?

What are your thoughts on Gaten Matarazzo's interpretation of Byler? Let us know in the comments below.