Stranger Things Season 5 has ignited a wave of speculation after fans observed scenes suggesting that Will Byers may now possess abilities that surpass Eleven's. Viewers have zeroed in on moments where Will's eyes turn white and he appears to destroy multiple Demogorgons at the same time.
His sudden ability to strike several creatures at once prompts questions about whether he is now operating on the same level as Vecna. The theory has quickly gained traction online as fans revisit Will's long and complicated connection to the Upside Down.
Fans Point to Dramatic New Displays of Strength
Much of the discussion revolves around how Will suddenly demonstrates the capacity to affect multiple creatures at once, something previously associated with only the most powerful psychic characters in the series.
In Season 5 scenes shared across social media, Will appears to engage the hive mind directly, disrupting Demogorgons in different locations simultaneously. This has led to widespread debate about whether his powers have grown quietly in the background and are only now being revealed in full force.
The Lingering Bond with Vecna
Central to the theory is Will's history with the Upside Down. Fans argue that ever since his return to Hawkins in Season 1, the psychic link created during his possession never fully disappeared.
While Eleven severed the physical hold Vecna had over him, viewers believe the mental thread remained, evolving as the hive mind expanded. According to this interpretation, the stronger the hive mind becomes, the more potent Will's connection grows, effectively amplifying his abilities in ways not seen before.
Identity, Emotion and a New Awakening
Character moments have also played a significant role in shaping fan understanding of Will's transformation. Audiences note that Robin encourages Will to accept who he truly is, suggesting a broader personal awakening taking place alongside his powers.
Mike's reassurance that Will is not being overtaken by the hive mind has also fuelled speculation. Fans interpret this as a sign that Will may be able to harness the Upside Down's network rather than be consumed by it. This emotional tipping point mirrors Eleven's Season 4 resurgence, where a deeply charged moment unlocked a new level of her strength.
How Will's Powers Compare with Eleven's
The core of the theory centres on the belief that Will's abilities are no longer limited to human psychic strength but draw directly from the hive mind itself. By tapping into the same network that powers Vecna, Will may be able to utilise abilities that Eleven cannot access, such as multi-target telekinesis, hive-mind awareness and advanced psychic resonance.
Fans argue that this internal vantage point effectively allows Will to replicate aspects of Vecna's power. As a result, some believe he may have surpassed Eleven in raw capability, marking a significant shift in the series' power dynamic.
The Rising Cost of Will's Connection
Supporters of the theory also point out the potential consequences of Will's enhanced abilities. The deeper his link to the hive mind becomes, the greater the risk that he could lose himself to it. This possibility has intensified online discussion, with many predicting that Will may face a difficult choice as the season progresses. The idea that he could be the key to defeating Vecna, yet also be the one who may have to pay the ultimate price, has created one of the most talked-about narrative threads of the season.
