Natalia Dyer played Nancy Wheeler in Stranger Things for nearly ten years. The final season wrapped up life in Hawkins and its many mysteries. It also gave Nancy a thoughtfully crafted conclusion. Now, Dyer has shared how deeply involved she was in that process.
Nancy's Ending and the One Request That Mattered Most
Dyer spoke after the series finale aired on January 1. She revealed she was firm about one major choice for Nancy's future. Her input helped define how the character's story closed. This came after years of supernatural danger and personal growth.
According to an interview with Deadline, Dyer explained one point was non-negotiable. Nancy walking away from college was something she felt very strongly about. "At the end, I would say Nancy not being in school is something I was very adamant about," she told the outlet.
A Collaborative Process with the Creators
Dyer added that the Duffer Brothers welcomed her perspective. They created the hit Netflix series. "The Duffers, they'd go around a little bit and be like, 'Well, what do you think?' They're very collaborative," she said.
In the finale of Stranger Things, Nancy does not return to Emerson College. Instead, she leaves school to take a job at the Boston Herald. Dyer said this choice felt honest to who Nancy had become through the series.
"My main thing is like, I just do not think Nancy could go back to school," Dyer explained. "I just cannot see her in school."
Why Natalia Dyer Felt Satisfied with the Conclusion
Dyer also made it clear her confidence in Nancy's ending did not come late. She felt assured as soon as she read the final pages of the script. "I remember reading the epilogue like, 'Yeah, that's perfect.' For me. For Nancy. I felt really satisfied," she shared.
After everything Nancy endured in Hawkins, Dyer could not picture her returning to a routine academic life. "I think after everything she's been through, I just couldn't see her writing papers and turning them in," the actress said.
An Emotional Farewell to the Character
Dyer reflected on her time with the show in an emotional Instagram post. She shared a photo of herself as Nancy Wheeler. She wrote a heartfelt caption about the experience.
"I've truly loved and learnt so much from Nancy Wheeler. Thank you, guys, for everything. It's been an honor of a lifetime monster hunting with you," Dyer wrote.
With its unique blend of mystery, horror, and coming-of-age drama, Stranger Things became one of the standout shows of its time. After five seasons, the run has now ended. The story was shaped by the Duffer Brothers and the cast who helped bring Hawkins to life.
The series finale provided closure for many characters. Nancy Wheeler's journey from a high school student to a determined journalist felt complete. Natalia Dyer's insights helped ensure that ending remained true to the character's development.
