The new Paramount Pictures, now under the ownership of Skydance, has officially announced a groundbreaking partnership with the creative minds behind the hit series Stranger Things. The Duffer Brothers, known for their innovative storytelling, will be bringing their production company, Upside Down Pictures, to the iconic Melrose Avenue lot in a comprehensive four-year exclusive agreement. This deal spans feature films, television, and streaming projects, marking a significant move for both the Duffers and the studio.
This exciting partnership comes on the heels of the Duffer Brothers' current deal with Netflix, which concludes in April 2026. While they transition to Paramount, the brothers will continue their involvement with Stranger Things and other ongoing projects at the streaming service. This new agreement allows the Duffers to explore their creative vision on the big screen, a long-held aspiration for the talented duo.
This momentous deal marks a strategic move for the newly revitalized Paramount under the leadership of David Ellison. The Duffer Brothers have previously collaborated with Cindy Holland, Chair of Paramount’s Direct-to-Consumer, and Matt Thunell, President of Paramount Television, during their time at Netflix. The brothers expressed their excitement about joining the Paramount family, highlighting the studio's commitment to bold and original filmmaking.
In a joint statement, Matt and Ross Duffer shared their enthusiasm: “We couldn’t be more thrilled to be joining the Paramount family. David, Josh, and Dana are passionate about bringing bold, original films to the big screen. To be part of that mission is not just exciting – it’s the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.” They also acknowledged their gratitude towards Cindy and Matt for believing in their vision from the very beginning.
The Duffer Brothers emphasized that their time at Netflix has been invaluable, citing the creative freedom and support they received from executives like Ted Sarandos and Bela Bajaria. They look forward to continuing their collaboration on Stranger Things 5, as well as other projects such as Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen and The Boroughs. The brothers are eager to expand the Stranger Things universe and explore new narratives beyond Hawkins.
Cindy Holland, in her remarks, expressed her excitement about welcoming the Duffer Brothers back into the fold, stating, “I’ve had the privilege of knowing Matt and Ross for over a decade and worked with them from their earliest stages through their deserving global success.” This sentiment was echoed by Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein, who emphasized the brothers’ extraordinary talent for storytelling and how this partnership exemplifies the new direction of Paramount.
As the Duffer Brothers embark on this exciting new chapter with Paramount Pictures, the entertainment industry watches closely. Their unique vision and ability to craft compelling narratives promise to deliver groundbreaking content that resonates with audiences worldwide.
