Netflix’s Success and Impact on Pop Culture Thanks to ‘Stranger Things’

bout monsters, Holly!), the Chordettes’ “Mr. Sandman” (already a horror staple thanks to Halloween II), and ABBA’s “Fernando,” which is exactly the right song for a wine mom’s bubble bath before she has to fight a Demogorgon. Netflix would also like you to know that “between the debuts of season one in 2016 and season four in 2022, the Dungeons & Dragons universe, which is a favorite of Eddie Munson and the Hellfire Club, saw a meteoric growth of 673%,” a claim that doesn’t mention, as Variety pointed out, that D&D has “made many big strides of its own over the last nine years, including a 2023 feature film, expansions to the game itself, and more,” though that does include some Stranger Things collaborations.

Netflix’s press release also touts the success of Stranger Things‘ many tie-in releases, including those red-filled Chips Ahoy cookies (the release doesn’t mention Peanut Butter Boppers or, oddly, Eggo waffles), Nike’s subtle-by-comparison Dunk Low sneakers featuring an upside-down logo, books and comics, and the immersive Stranger Things: The Experience. As the show winds down (three episodes arrive on Christmas, then the grand finale hits New Year’s Eve), it seems likely that the merch train will continue to chug along for Stranger Things (have you seen the Creel House Lego set?)—and that Netflix will probably break some more viewership records before we see the last of Vecna. No doubt there will be more retro songs resurfaced in the remainder of the season. Plus, that animated spin-off arriving next year will surely also help keep Stranger fever alive. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.