David Bowie’s 1977 anthem “Heroes” closes the Stranger Things series finale, a choice pitched by Joe Keery (Steve Harrington). The song’s legacy—from chart struggles to post-Bowie resurgence—mirrors the show’s own journey, making it a poignant, fan-celebrated send-off.
The Stranger Things series finale, released January 1, 2026, ended with a masterstroke: David Bowie’s “Heroes” playing over the animated credits. The choice wasn’t random—it was a pitch from Joe Keery, who plays fan-favorite Steve Harrington. “Once Joe said that, we immediately knew that was the right song,” co-creator Ross Duffer confirmed Parade.
Why does it work so well? The song’s history parallels the show’s. Initially a commercial flop—failing to crack the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1977—“Heroes” has since become a cultural touchstone, resurging after Bowie’s 2016 death and earning covers from Prince, Oasis, and St. Vincent. Its themes of resilience and defiance mirror the show’s underdog spirit.
The Song’s Journey: From Obscurity to Icon
“Heroes” was the title track of Bowie’s 1977 album, co-written with Brian Eno. Despite its slow start, the song found new life in the 2000s, peaking at No. 12 in the U.K. after Bowie’s passing. Its use in films, ads, and now Stranger Things cements its status as a timeless anthem.
Fans flooded YouTube comments with praise: “Purple Rain, Iron Maiden, and this… They deserve an Oscar just for the song choices,” one wrote. Another called it “MY FAVORITE SONG PLAYED AT THE END OF MY FAVORITE SHOW.”
Joe Keery’s Dual Role: Actor and Musician
Keery’s influence extends beyond acting. As Djo, he’s released four albums, including Decide (2022), which saw belated success when “End of the Beginning” went viral on TikTok. His musical instincts likely shaped the finale’s emotional punch.
Why ‘Heroes’ Fits the ‘Stranger Things’ Legacy
The song’s inclusion echoes Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill”, which surged to No. 3 on the Hot 100 after its 2022 Stranger Things feature. Both tracks transcend their eras, proving music can define a moment—just as the show redefined nostalgia-driven storytelling.
For fans, the finale’s soundtrack isn’t just background noise. It’s a love letter to the ‘80s, the characters, and the power of music to elevate storytelling. As one commenter put it: “This song has now been at the end of two of my favorite shows.”
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