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Stranger Things Season 5 has finally arrived with its first volume, and fans are buzzing about more than just Vecna's terrifying plans. While the supernatural threats loom larger than ever, something else has caught viewers' attention. The relationship between Mike Wheeler and Eleven appears to be hanging by a thread.
The show has always maintained a balance of monster fights and heartfelt character moments. This season is no different, but eagle-eyed fans noticed something strange about everyone's favorite couple. Their interactions feel different now. The spark seems dimmed. The connection feels distant.
Volume 1 dropped subtle hints throughout its episodes. These clues suggest that Mike and El's romance might not survive the final battle. Some signs were obvious. Others were cleverly hidden in conversations and glances.
Let's examine the five key indicators that suggest this beloved relationship is on the verge of coming to an end. Understanding these moments helps us see where the story might go next.
1) The Awkward rooftop conversation in Stranger Things Season 5
Mike and El share only one significant scene together in Volume 1. This conversation happens on a rooftop. They discuss the future and their friends. But something feels off about their entire exchange.
The dialogue focuses on everyone except themselves. They worry about Dustin's reckless behavior. They express concern for Hopper. Mike mentions Will's possible connection to Vecna. Yet they barely discuss their own relationship.
Stranger Things Season 5 makes this absence feel intentional. When couples are secure, they talk about their shared future. Mike and El avoid this topic completely. Their discomfort speaks volumes.
The most telling moment comes when Mike says,
"If Vecna's gone, then what's stopping us?"
This line sounds romantic at first. But it actually reveals the opposite. Their relationship only exists because of external threats. Without danger, they have no foundation.
2) The reaction to the "lovebirds" comment
Lucas refers to Mike and El as "lovebirds" during a group conversation. Both of them look visibly uncomfortable. Their body language screams awkwardness, and the implication of this could be anything.
Happy couples usually laugh off such teasing. They might blush or smile. But Mike and El practically flinch. This suggests they possess knowledge that others don't. Perhaps they've already discussed breaking up. Maybe they're just avoiding the inevitable conversation.
3) Eighteen months of distance
Stranger Things Season 5 reveals that El has been in hiding for 18 months. She's been training and has only seen Joyce, Hopper, and friends in secret whenever possible. This long separation would test any relationship. But Mike and El seem more like old friends than romantic partners now.
Their hug when reuniting lacks passion. Their conversation feels polite rather than intimate. Real couples who've been apart that long would have different energy. They'd have more to say to each other. The distance between them is no longer just physical; it has become emotional.
4) The Will and El parallels
The show draws clear comparisons between Mike's scenes with El and Will. Both conversations involve D&D metaphors. But the tone differs completely.
With El, Mike offers empty comfort about an unlikely future. With Will, he provides genuine inspiration. Mike's conversation with Will brings them closer. His talk with El ends with doubt and uncertainty.
Stranger Things Season 5 appears to be highlighting what a genuine connection looks like. Mike understands Will on a deeper level. Their friendship has grown stronger. Meanwhile, his relationship with El has weakened.
Also See: Stranger Things season 5: Derek Turbow's role in Stranger Things' volume 1, explained
5) Mike's reaction to Will's powers in Stranger Things Season 5
Will saves Mike from Demogorgons by tapping into his abilities. Mike's reaction tells us everything. He looks completely awestruck. His expression exhibits pure admiration.
Stranger Things Season 5 previously illustrated El's frustration with Mike. She felt he only cared about her powers. She wanted him to love her for who she is. But when Will uses his abilities, Mike isn't impressed by the power itself. He's moved because Will found inner strength through their conversation.
This difference is crucial. Mike's connection with Will extends beyond the surface. He appreciates Will's courage and growth. This emotional depth seems to be missing from his relationship with El.
Also See: Blink and you missed it: Holly's book reveals a major Stranger Things Season 5 ending theory
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Stranger Things Season 5 has carefully planted seeds throughout Volume 1. The signs point to one conclusion: Mike and Eleven's chapter is closing.
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