‘Stranger Things’: The Truth About Dr. Brenner’s Rumored Return in Season 4
One of the most exciting things about Stranger Things Season 4 is the possible return of Dr. Brenner — the man responsible for all things at the center of the show, from The Upside Down to Eleven. Viewers have long speculated that he would turn up again at some point on the series, but it wasn’t until production started on the fourth season that it seemed like a real possibility.
Addressing the rumors, actor Matthew Modine wouldn’t say whether his character will officially appear in the forthcoming season. But he didn’t turn it down, either.
What happened to Dr. Brenner on ‘Stranger Things’
As viewers recall, Dr. Brenner appeared to die in season 1. He had been trying to capture Eleven after she escaped his lab when a deadly Demogorgon attacked him. But the second season revealed he had somehow survived.
Even though he’s still alive, his whereabouts and recent activities remain a mystery. One past theory was that he’s “the American” imprisoned in season 4 at a Russian camp, but that person has since been revealed as Jim Hopper.
Newer theories say he could be working with the Russians, teaching them about The Upside Down, Demogorgons, and more — which would explain how they know so much about that world. But nothing has been confirmed so far.
During production on ‘Stranger Things’ Season 4, Matthew Modine was reportedly spotted on set
Back in January, an Instagram account known for posting updates about the show shared photos of Modine on the set of the show.
“he’s back…” read the post, which featured two photos of a masked Modine driving on a street with trailers in the background. The post kicked up rumors that Modine will be back as Dr. Brenner in Stranger Things Season 4, which is expected to air sometime in 2021. But who knows.
Matthew Modine’s comments on Dr. Brenner’s return to ‘Stranger Things’
When Yahoo! asked Modine about Dr. Brenner’s possible return in season 4, he said he’d “love” to come back to the show, but he wouldn’t say whether there are any official plans to do it.
“I’d love to be invited back. I really enjoyed working with [the show’s creators] Matt and Ross Duffer and the crew they assembled. It’s extraordinary how it took off and the heights it’s flown to. It’s a global phenomenon,” he told the outlet.
“If they choose to bring me back, I’ll jump in head first.” he continued, noting that he’s in an “undisclosed secret location.”
As far as those photos, Modine explained to Today that he was on a trip and decided to stop by the set to visit certain cast members.
So, the chances of his return are still up in the air. But considering his significance to the show, we’re sure he’ll come back at some point. It’s just a matter of when.
