Season 4 of Millie Bobby Brown’s Netflix sensation, Stranger Things was supposed to be the most exceptional season yet. Promising more thrills, scares, laughs, and tears. However, releasing the show in two parts worked against the show. The latest installment of the popular series won the hearts of millions worldwide. However, it ended up leaving us disheartened for this one specific Emmy miss.

Despite deserving praise and recognition from both critics and awards voters alike, it, unfortunately, stood snubbed and ignored.

Stranger Things season 4 did not check the right Emmy boxes

What led to one of the most popular Netflix series with 39 Emmy nominations and six wins since its debut in 2016 to go so wrong? So much so that the second volume completely missed out on a ‘Best Drama’ Emmy nomination this season. One major contributing factor behind Stranger Things Season 4’s lack of major Emmy nominations was its divided release schedule. However, releasing the show in two volumes worked well for the fans but not for the show as a whole. Nevertheless, the show was generally well-received by its audience but not by the critics.

When its long-awaited premiere date finally arrived, it fell short of meeting anticipated standards. The somber tone contrasted with previous seasons’ lighter vibe. The narrative was a bit confusing and was a departure from elements that originally made Stranger Things appeal to audiences. It lacked charm, humor, and profound moments, and people complained of cliche moments. Moreover, it faced criticism for introducing an overwhelming number of subplots and new characters, often influenced by inconsistencies in the overall storyline. 

But all of this did not affect the show’s Emmys shot. One particular reason why Stranger Things Season 4 did not receive an ‘Outstanding Drama Series’ nomination for its second volume is that it did not fulfill the eligibility criteria established by the Emmy Academy. The official rules and procedures governing the Primetime Emmy Awards consider only works released between June 1, 2021, to May 31, 2022, eligible for nomination during this award season. Unfortunately, Season 4 Volume 2 debuted on July 1st of 2022, missing the deadline by a month.

 The “hanging episodes” rule was not applicable either, which lets works released after May 31st qualify for consideration if the series were done by that date as a whole. Stranger Things Season 4 Volume 2 was rendered ineligible for consideration in that year’s Emmy Awards, even if the season had its moments.

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Fortunately, there is still hope for fans.

Season 5 may redeem the show and bag a nomination

In light of recent news it has been officially confirmed by the show’s creators, Matt and Ross Duffer that a fifth and final season is in the works. Fans can anticipate its release sometime in 2025. The ongoing WGA strike may delay it, but the show’s creators promise to make it well.

Assuring viewers, the Duffer brothers have ensured that Season 5 will surpass all expectations and serve as a grand culmination of the show’s storylines and unresolved mysteries. They say they will produce the most spectacular season ever. Additionally, he emphasized that it will offer unparalleled enjoyment for fans as well as provide the best storyline.

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What did you think of Stranger Things Season 4? How do you feel about the latest season missing out on Emmy nominations? Let us know in the comments below.