Skip The Drive-Thru Line With These 37 Fast Food Copycat Recipes

fast food copycat recipes

It’s 2024, and though the drive-thru is an adequate solution for resolving morning munchiesor midnight hunger pangs, there are better ways to go about getting your hands on a little snack. Most of what we spend money on elsewhere can be perfected right at home, oftentimes with a lot less effort than you’d think!

These fast food copycat recipes prove it – everything from a homemade Taco Bell Crunchwrap to Chick-fil-A nuggets awaits you, using only a handful of ingredients! Scroll for the best drive-thru dupes around.

McDonald's Copycat Recipes

Vegan McDonald's Double Cheeseburger

Vegan pals – since we're still waiting to grub on a plant-based McDonald's burger in the states, you can prep these friendly Big Macs using all vegan ingredients to get a taste of the fast food goodness. (via The Edgy Veg)

Healthier McDonald's McGriddle

Our mouths water for a McGriddle. Fluffy pancakes envelop a thick stack of cheese, eggs, and bacon for a savory-sweet A.M. snack. In this fast food copycat recipe, things are made a tad healthier – mostly because it's not coming directly from a drive-thru! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Vegan McDonald's McChicken

You can make *more* vegan treats than just a Big Mac. In this fast food copycat recipe, you craft your own 'chicken' patties using yeast, seasonings, and veggie broth so every bite is bursting with that McDonald's-like flavor. (via The Edgy Veg)

Meal Prep McDonald's Egg McMuffins

You'll be forsaken to ever visit another McDonald's for breakfast again. You can thank these copycat Egg McMuffins that can be effortlessly built ahead of time as meal prep – score! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Vegan McDonald's Chicken Nuggets

The best part about McD's nuggs is the crunchy, crispy coating that surrounds a plush inside. These plant-based pieces emulate that same texture with ease! (via The Edgy Veg)

McDonald's Shamrock Shake

McDonald's minty Shamrock Shake is addictive, but the sad side is that it's only available seasonally around St. Patrick's Day. With this fast food copycat recipe, you can prep it year-round! Plus, you can put as much whipped cream on your drink as your heart desires! (via Brit + Co)

Vegan McDonald's Chicken Big Mac

Vegan chicken strikes again in this fast food copycat recipe, this time, folded into soft bread buns and stacks of plant-based cheese, secret sauce, and fresh lettuce. (via The Edgy Veg)

Starbucks Food Copycat Recipes

Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink

Just 4 ingredients and about 5 minutes will yield you a big ol' mug of the delicious Medicine Ball drink from Starbucks! This sipper also makes a great option for sick days and cold winters. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

Becoming your own barista is actually so fun, and drinks like the Peppermint Mocha aren't challenging at all to make yourself. Plus, DIY-ing your coffee means you control the sweetness, creaminess, and ingredients as much as you want, so you end up with a drink that really can't be beat elsewhere. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Caramel Brûlée Latte

Instead of waiting an entire calendar year for the Starbucks holiday menu to hit again, you can craft your very own seasonal drinks! Use this copycat recipe for the fan-famous Caramel Brûlée Latte for a taste of the most wonderful time of the year – all year long. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Eggnog Latte

The same goes for the Eggnog Latte! Since being nixed from Starbucks menus across the US, we've been desperately missing the drink, especially around winter time. Luckily, there are fast food copycat recipes like this one we've created to keep the cravings at bay. Check it out! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

Never miss out on a seasonal Starbucks item again with fast food copycat recipes like this. These cranberry-based treats are coated in a delicious homemade icing that's way better than the OG. (via Culinary Hill for Brit + Co)

Starbucks Lemon Loaf

Boasting the perfect balance between sweet and punchy, this DIY lemon loaf recipe beats out waiting in the drive-thru by many miles. The fresh ingredients make all the difference, plus you'll end up with numerous slices instead of just one, saving some $$$ along the way. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

The BSSO from Starbucks is a menu icon, and it only takes a handful of ingredients to make one on your own! (via Hello Little Home)

Starbucks Egg Bites

Starbucks' sous vide egg bites have us in a chokehold, not going to lie. But after learning they can be recreated in a matter of minutes at home has us thinking in other ways. To make these, combine eggs with your choice of veggies and meat, and bake in a shallow tray of water! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Starbucks Pumpkin Bread

These treats also have us in a chokehold – it's safe to say Starbies just has that effect. Your $5 order of pumpkin bread is transformed into an entirely more budget-friendly option while still retaining a satisfying taste on the flavor front. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Starbucks Spinach Feta Wrap

SFW, FTW. The Spinach Feta Wrap combines the good greens, tomato pieces, egg whites, and feta for morning time fuel. Luckily, you don't have to make a stop on your way to work for the iconic wrap anymore. This fast food copycat recipe does the job! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Chipotle Copycat Recipes

Chipotle Sofritas

Having your own BYO Chipotle bowl night could be a super fun dinner party idea – you bring the Sofritas, and your friends supply the veg! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Chipotle Hot Salsa

Don't forget to spice things up – it's what makes Chipotle, well, Chipotle! Whether you're more of a mild gal, or a hot-hot-hot lover, you can really control how much *punch* goes into this fast food copycat recipe. (via Culinary Hill)

Chipotle Guacamole

With this copycat, guac will never cost extra. (via Culinary Hill)

Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice

The *iconic* cilantro-lime rice from the chain gets the at-home treatment in just 5 easy steps. (via Culinary Hill)

Panera Bread Copycat Recipes

Panera Chicken Noodle Soup

For cooler nights, this Panera Bread copycat recipe supplies the most optimal levels of warmth and flavor. Chunky noodles, tender chicken, and soup veggies have never made a better cozy dinner. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese

This fast food copycat recipe is to. die. for. Get ready to dig your spoon into this thick, creamy, cheesy mixture – made all without having to leave the house! (via Cozy Cravings)

Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

The smokes gouda and roasted bell peppers are crucial to the Chicken Avocado Melt's build. A fancy sandwich is guaranteed to hit the spot, and it's added bonus that this one emulates Panera. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Taco Bell Copycat Recipes

Healthier Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme

This delectable build is *exactly* like the Taco Bell version, except the fresh ingredients make it a better, healthier bite. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Taco Bell Cheesy Gordita Crunch Tacos

A crunch is exactly what you need from a taco. This recipe layers crunchy and soft tortillas and crisps them up to perfection! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Wendy's Copycat Recipes

Wendy's Chili

You're going to want some salty fries to pair with this bold chili. This fast food copycat recipe recreates the textures of Wendy's chili to a tee. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Wendy's Taco Salad

Take things a step further and add your Wendy's copycat chili to a bed of salad that's fitted with cheese, tomatoes, sour cream, and crunchy corn chips. (via The Girl On Bloor)

P.F. Chang's Copycat Recipes

P.F. Chang's Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps are all we know from P.F. Chang's – because they're really all you need. They're fresh and pack super crunchy bites each time, especially when you make 'em at home! (via The Girl On Bloor)

P.F. Chang's Mongolian Beef

This tasty copycat recipe would be an amazing make for when you're craving takeout on the weekend. Bursting with notes of garlic, ginger, and sesame, this savory select is too good to ignore. (via Averie Cooks)

Shake Shack Copycat Recipes

Shake Shack Burger

Prep a copycat Shake Shack burger alongside some crinkle-cut fries for the best Friday night dinner ever. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Domino's Copycat Recipes

Vegan Domino's Cinna Stix

Now, for something sweet. This copycat recipe takes Cinna Stix for a deliciously ooey-gooey vegan spin! (via No Eggs Or Ham)

Olive Garden Copycat Recipes

Vegan Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana

For soup season, this Zuppa just hits differently. Each spoonful plays around creaminess and spice! (via Veggie Society)

Panda Express Copycat Recipes

Panda Express Beijing Beef

When the Panda cravings creep in, this Beijing Beef copycat recipe steps in with the heat. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Chick-fil-A Copycat Recipes

Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets and Sauce

The chicken nuggets from Chick-fil-A are incomparable to many others, especially when they're dunked in special sauce. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Chick-fil-a Mac and Cheese

It's basic knowledge that the mac and cheese from Chick-fil-A is pure heaven, but sometimes you don't wanna spend money on it! This recipe delivers all the cheesiness and creaminess you know and love from the popular side. (via The Fast Recipe)

Chick-fil-A Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich

The Chick-fil-A Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich is sooo yum. It's bursting with fried chicken, pimento cheese, pickles, and a sweet honey sauce. The menu item was only available for a limited time, but with this recipe, you can make it all the dang time! (via A Spicy Perspective)

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Lead image via The Edgy Veg.

This post has been updated.

So long, pumpkin spice season: Starbucks’ holiday menu has officially returned, and it brings back a ton of seasonal favorites!

In addition to the classic Peppermint Mocha to the beloved Caramel Brûlée Latte, a new Refresher flavor, 6 unique cold foams, and 4 new bakery items are now available at Starbucks locations as the holidays draw near – including many items we predicted! The lineup is honestly wild. The Starbucks holiday menu hit stores on November 7.

If you just can’t wait to order off the Starbucks holiday menu, here’s every offering available at your closest cafe!

When will the Starbucks holiday drinks for 2024 come out?

Starbucks

The new holiday drinks and snacks from Starbucks came out on November 7, 2024.

Will there be holiday cups?

Starbucks

Yes, the Starbucks holiday menu includes some new holiday cup designs! You can peek at all the new designs for 2024 here.

What's missing from this year's rumored Starbucks holiday menu?

Starbucks

The Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread Loaf won't be returning to cafes for 2024. We're especially sad to see the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha not included, though the official menu lineup has yet to be released!

When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Though there's no official word out about Red Cup Day for 2024, our best guess – based on the Red Cup Days of years past – is it'll return mid-November. In 2023, Red Cup Day fell on November 16. In 2022, the coffee chain held the event on November 17. Both dates landed on the third Thursday of November, so we predict it to hit on November 21 for 2024. Red Cup Day is when Starbucks customers can get a free reusable red cup when they order a seasonal drink off the holiday menu!

Drinks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

Starbucks

NEW! Cran-Merry Orange Refresher

This brand-new Refresher is packed with sweet orange, tart cranberry, and warm spice. It also has cranberry inclusions and is order-able mixed with water, lemonade or coconut milk.

Starbucks

Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

Chai is a totally underrated holiday flavor in our opinion. This iced drink is crafted with warm chai spices and creamy oat milk, then gets topped with even more frothed oat milk infused with gingerbread-flavored syrup and a sprinkling of spice.

Starbucks

Peppermint Mocha

You know it, and you love it! The Peppermint Mocha has hit Starbucks menus year after year, making it a total statement sip for the holiday season. This drink (available hot or iced) combines peppermint syrup, mocha sauce, and your milk of choice with espresso for a festive feel. It's traditionally topped with whipped cream and tasty chocolate curls.

Starbucks

Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha

Similar to the classic Peppermint Mocha, this bev swaps chocolate for white chocolate sauce.

Starbucks

Caramel Brûlée Latte

This Starbucks holiday menu drink is very rich. The sweet caramel brûlée sauce totally completes the sip, along with plenty of whipped cream and crunchy lil' brûlée bits for textural variety.

Starbucks

Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte

Literally like a sugar cookie in liquid form, this super-sweet latte is handcrafted with blonde espresso (it's sweeter and lighter than Starbucks' traditional espresso shots), sugar cookie syrup, and almond milk for a little bit of a lighter effect. It's finished off with red and green sprinkles to up the seasonal vibes even more!

Starbucks

Chestnut Praline Latte

This nutty latte brings on notes of chestnut and praline, which is a nice, flavorful departure from the very expected peppermint you'll see everywhere come holiday time.

Starbucks

Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew

Initially introduced for fall 2024, it appears as though the Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew will stay on the Starbucks menu well into winter. The salted, pecan-flavored cold foam offers that classic sweet n' salty twist you'd enjoy on fall snacks like trail mix or dipped pretzels. The best part is you can now also order the cold foam in non-dairy form!

Starbucks

Holiday Cold Foams

Starbs will also be bringing back four beloved holiday-flavored cold foamsand two new options for 2024. They're the perfect drink customization to add to your iced coffees and cold brews if you don't want to order an all-out holiday drink. See all the flavors below:

  • NEW! Gingerbread
  • NEW! Salted Pecan
  • Peppermint Chocolate
  • Sugar Cookie
  • Chestnut Praline
  • Caramel Brûlée

Snacks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

Starbucks

NEW! Dark Toffee Bundt

This sweet toffee-flavored bundt is topped with holly- and berry-shaped sprinkles. How perfect for the holiday season!

Starbucks

NEW! Turkey Sage Danish

This savory snack reportedly includes "turkey sausage with creamy béchamel sauce in a pastry." It sounds like Thanksgiving in a single treat, and we can't wait to try it!

Starbucks

NEW! Penguin Cookie

This cutie sugar cookie is decorated like a lil' penguin bundled up for the cold.

Starbucks

Snowman Cake Pop

Starbucks' classic vanilla cake pop gets a wintry twist with an adorable snowman face – this sweet really makes us crave the holiday season!

Starbucks

Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

This cream cheese-filled danish is topped with a slightly-spiced sugar plum jam. It's been one of our go-to's over the past few holiday seasons at Starbucks!

Starbucks

Cranberry Bliss Bar

The Cranberry Bliss Bar has become an absolute staple on the Starbucks holiday menu, and for good reason! This blondie treat is smothered in a delicious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with orange zest and dried cranberries for added seasonal enjoyment.

What People Are Saying About The Leaked Starbucks Holiday Menu

Famed foodie account @markie_devo was the first to leak the Starbucks holiday menu earlier this year. Though most commenters on @markie_devo's Starbucks holiday menu leak post seemed to be excited for the upcoming rumored menu items, some Starbs fans noticed a few things missing from the leaked lineup.

"Still missing eggnog 😢," someone noted.

"Where is the toasted white chocolate mocha 😢😢😢😢," another questioned.

"ALLLLLL these cold foams, and not the one people want: Irish Cream," one more commenter said.

"Ugh still no gingerbread loaf 😭," a disappointed user wrote. "Everything else looks bomb though!"

Despite the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread loaf not being part of this year's menu predictions, the holiday season is our favorite time of year at Starbucks. Many more users shared the same sentiment:

"So excited for all chestnut praline shaken espressos & cranberry bliss bars 🎄🎄🎄🎄," someone wrote.

"Oh hell yess all the chestnut praline offerings," another rejoiced.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay posted on the latest Starbucks news, including when the official holiday menu lineup drops!

This post has been updated.

Last year, some of us celebrated the holidays apart from our families for the first time. COVID has brought with it many changes, some of them arguably positive (like increased flexibility to work from home), some difficult (such as the realization of vastly different political and social views between family and friends), and some horrible (obviously, the health implications of a global pandemic). However, for some of us, celebrating the holidays without family members isn't exclusively due to COVID. In addition to so many of us living in different areas than our families of origin, some of us simply don't have close bonds with the people we grew up around. Sometimes, this can cause loneliness.

If you're not close with your family members, the holidays can be a difficult time. This is doubly true if you don't have a close circle of friends to call upon. But make no mistake, if this sounds like your situation, you're not alone — there are thousands of other people going through the same struggles you are. We sat down with Irad Eichler, founder of Circles, a website that connects people who are sharing similar struggles, like heartbreak, grief, or loneliness. Here are some of Eichler's tips for coping — and even thriving! — during the holiday season when you're not planning on spending it with your family, for one reason or another.

Don't Fall For "Perfect Families" On Social Media

Laura Chouette

The first VERY important step to having a joyous holiday season when you're going it alone is to stop believing the narrative that others' family situations are perfect, Eichler says.

"Remember people only post a moment in time, and only the moments when they look their happiest and best."

In addition to the fact that everything you see on social media is curated for the 'gram, it's also important to remember that by focusing on what others have and you lack, you risk failing to see the great things at play in your own life.

"These holiday periods can become a time of focusing on who and what we don't have, rather than who or what we do, and can cause a negative spiral into depressing and dreadful feelings of inadequacy," says Eichler.

Gratitude is the reason for the season, after all. So instead of only seeing the negative, try some gratitude journal prompts to help you focus on what's actually really wonderful about your life right now.

Make An Effort To Deepen New Connections

Joel Muniz

While it may seem like everyone has friends and family to spend time with during the holiday season, that doesn't mean no one is available for deepening a blossoming relationship or new friendship.

"Make a list of people you can or would like to connect with, and try to reach out to at least one of them," advises Eichler.

Reaching out doesn't have to mean a big plan or an hour-long conversation. Even a quick text letting a friendly coworker know you're thinking about them can go a long way toward deepening the relationship and moving it in the direction of closer friendship.

Don't have an acquaintance in mind? Then it's time to make new acquaintances. What's more in line with the Christmas spirit than attending a Meetup or event full of people eager to make new friends?

"Join groups with similar interests to yours, such as hiking, baking, or games. Push your boundaries and be brave - you might find new people who have much in common with you."

Give Back

Priscilla Du Preez

The holiday season is a great time to focus on giving back to your community, and coincidentally, acts of generosity and kindness are known to reduce loneliness and help people feel happier. One study found that knowing a few of your neighbors and doing small acts of kindness for them — such as cheering them up, listening to them, mowing their lawn, providing advice about local business recommendations and job opportunities, and chatting over the fence — was statistically correlated with feeling less lonely and having a lower risk of depression.

Helping out elderly neighbors can be a particularly gratifying way to give back.

"Notice older lonely people in your neighborhood or community who might have no family at all, and offer to help them," says Eichler. "These can become mutually meaningful connections, and help you 'adopt' a grandparent."

Connect With Others Online

Thought Catalog

Finally, use the Internet for its highest and best purpose: to connect people. Whether you're using Meetup to find in-person events, digital forums for having conversations about special interests, or programs like Circle for getting support from others in your situation, the opportunities to create new connections are practically endless.

"There are many interest groups that can be found digitally, where or any person can connect with others in the same life stage, going through the same challenges, or who would like to explore the same interests," Eichler states. "Meaningful connections can be formed easily in these circumstances. The Internet enables us to find and connect to people all over the world who fit this, and to whom we can become more easily attached, as we are able to find people with the exact interests that energize us."

If you're struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Connect with our digital community of makers and creatives here at Brit+Co by following us on IG and signing up for our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

I didn't watch Stranger Thingswhen it first premiered because I convinced myself I wouldn't like it. I have never been more wrong. The story — which revolves around a small town in Indiana, a group of outcasts, popular kids, and parents brought together by tragedy, and a monstrous alternate dimension — launched into the cultural zeitgeist in November of 2016. Television (and streaming services) have never been the same.

The characters within the show (Millie Bobby Brown's powerful Eleven, Joe Keery's goofy-yet-sincere Steve, David Harbour's protective Jim) are so complex and engaging that it makes Stranger Things one of the best TV shows of the 2010s and 2020s. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and after the cultural moment that was Stranger Things 4 (FYI, I'm still listening to Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill"), the hit series is coming to a close.

Netflix

In February 2022, brothers, writers, and creators Matt and Ross announced both the date of season four, and that season five would be the last installment. "Seven years ago, we planned out the complete story arc for Stranger Things," they say in the statement. "We hope that you stay with us as we finish this tale of a powerful girl named Eleven and her brave friends, of a broken police chief and a ferocious mom, of a small town called Hawkins and an alternate dimension known only as the Upside Down."

Here's everything we know about Stranger Things 5.

What are the Stranger Things 5 episode titles?

Netflix

For Stranger Things Day 2024, Netflix finally released the title names for season 5 — and they might have just confirmed a years-long theory. The Stranger Things finale will be called "The Rightside Up," which immediately reminds me of the theory that Millie Bobby Brown's Eleven will redeem the Upside Down from a place of darkness and horror to somewhere our favorite late characters can rest (or in the words of one Reddit user, "Eleven should take Vecna's place as the new ruler of the Upside Down and make it into a paradise"). And if that means we get to see Eddie, Barb, Bob, and Alexei again? Then that's just the cherry on top. It's also even sweeter when you remember the season 1 finale is called "The Upside Down."

"'the rightside up' just confirms to me that stranger things 5 has a happy ending," one X user says, while another jokes, "the last episode of st5 being the rightside up makes me sick." But I take comfort knowing David Harbour called the finale "the best episode they’ve ever done.”

All I gotta say is if season 5 ends by telling us the whole show was one big D&D game, I'm going to lose my marbles.

The Stranger Things 5 Episode Titles:

  • Episode 1: “The Crawl”
  • Episode 2: “The Vanishing of …”
  • Episode 3: “The Turnbow Trap”
  • Episode 4: “Sorcerer”
  • Episode 5: “Shock Jock”
  • Episode 6: “Escape from Camazotz”
  • Episode 7: “The Bridge”
  • Episode 8: “The Rightside Up”

When is Stranger Things 5 coming out?

Steve Dietl/Netflix

Stranger Things 5 is officially coming to Netflix in 2025.

Production was supposed to begin summer 2023, but because of the writers' strike (and the subsequent SAG-AFTRA actors' strike), Stranger Things 5was delayed until September 2023, when @strangerwriters tweeted, "we're back." And on March 9, Millie Bobby Brown told The Jonathan Ross Show that the cast has nine months of filming left.

The final season is in production now, and based on the timeline for Stranger Things 3 (which began filming in April of 2018 and released in July of 2019), we can expect Stranger Things 5 to hit Netflix late spring or early summer 2025.

Is there a Stranger Things 5 trailer?

Netflix

We don't have a trailer for Stranger Things 5 yet, but fans are convinced we're getting one on November 6 for one special reason: it's Stranger Things Day. @StrangerNews11 went viral on X for saying the trailer was dropping on that date, and fans were more than happy to accept the rumor.

"Let's freaking gooooooo!!!!!!" one user responded, while lots of other accounts posed gifs of excited, screaming people. November 6 is Stranger Things Day because that's the day Will first went missing in the Upside Down, and releasing the trailer for the final season would be the perfect way to pay homage to the series!

Is Stranger Things 5 going to be sad?

Netflix

Stranger Things 5 is definitely going to be bittersweet. I'm hoping we see our favorite nerds defeat Vecna once and for all, but it's going to be sad to reach the end of this journey! But the cast doesn't even know how sad it'll be — considering Winona Ryder revealed they haven't done their read through for the finale yet. (Although both Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour claim they know at least part of the end).

"It's already starting to be heartbreaking, you know?" Maya Hawke, who plays Robin, tells ET at the world premiere of Inside Out 2. "I mean it's the end of a really long journey. Longer for some of my castmates, even, than for me. So it's really sentimental."

"But as a late addition cast member, I feel like it's my job to be here to facilitate their feelings and just be grateful and excited to have been a part of it all," she continues. "We shoot for a long time, so it's kind of reinvigorating [to bring] the joy and finding it everyday and making it new. It's a really fun thing to do."

Will Max be in Stranger Things 5?

Netflix

Yes, Max (and Sadie Sink) will be in Stranger Things season 5! In a new interview with Variety, Sink reveals the Stranger Things cast has been living in the same neighborhood so they can all hang out before the series wraps. The end of Stranger Things 4 featured Max in a coma after narrowly escaping Vecna, and fans are crossing all their fingers and toes we'll see Max in action again.

“[The Duffers] love having me run,” she teases. “That’s all I’ll say.”

This is totally bringing me back to the iconic Stranger Things 4 momentwhere Max battled Vecna in his mind palace — running back to Lucas, Steve, and Dustin while Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" played in the background. And considering Max is STILL in a coma, I'm wondering if we'll get another standoff between the two characters (either IRL, in the Upside Down, or in Vecna's mind palace). The jury's still out on whether we'll hear Bush's song again, but never say never!

“She’s going to play a part in the season,” Matt Duffer promises. While they won't reveal how just yet, Duffer says they “did film a scene the other day with her that was just absolutely heartbreaking." Yikes!!

What happens in Stranger Things 5?

Netflix

We're waiting for an official synopsis for Stranger Things 5, but thanks to a new video from Millie Bobby Brown, I'm wondering if all of those time jump rumors are true. In the Stranger Things 4 finale, Eleven is rocking a shaved head, but in Millie's new video, she has a longer ponytail that would take at least a year or two to grow out.

While Millie could definitely wear a wig for the final season (like she does in season 4), the fact that she's in costume with her signature bloody nose leads me to believe her hair is how we'll see it onscreen. Plus, her gray quarter zip and navy bandana are definitely giving late '80s, early '90s. I would love to see the show move into 1989, and I can't wait to see if we truly do get a time jump!

Netflix

In an interview with Happy Sad Confused's Josh Horowitz, David Harbour says that the Duffers always outdo themselves. “I’m excited to go back. I’m excited to wrap it up in a bold, amazing way," he continues. "I’m excited to really swing with this character, because you know they’re going to pay off these OG characters: Eleven, Hopper, Joyce, Will, Mike; they’re going to pay them off in big ways because they’ve lived with you for the past eight years.”

Even though David keeps his lips sealed when it comes to plot details, he does promise that the series' end is "very, very moving."

Other members of the ST team have also offered a glimpse at what we can expect. “Will really takes center stage again in [Stranger Things 5],” Ross Duffer tells Variety. The first season, which kicked off with Will (Noah Schnapp) being abducted, will wrap up where it started. Especially since the first Stranger Things 5 leakseems to show the season will take place during the holidays. Just like season one!

After years of speculation from fans, Noah confirmed that Will is gay in July of 2022 — a decision that impacted his own life as he publicly came out on TikTok in January 2023.

Netflix

"I think the way I act in Season 5, honestly, might be a little different," Noah says in the same Variety interview. "I will be fully aware of who I am. Knowing all of that about myself and being able to invest that in my character, I’m honestly just excited.”

“This emotional arc for him is what we feel is going to hopefully tie the whole series together," Ross continues. "Will is used to being the young one, the introverted one, the one that’s being protected. So part of his journey, it’s not just sexuality — it’s Will coming into his own as a young man.”

Who's going to be in Stranger Things 5?

Atsushi Nishijima/Netflix

Thanks to a recent behind-the-scenes photo from Netflix, we know for sure that Stranger Things season 5 will bring back all our favorites. The photo confirms we'll see Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven, Noah Schnapp as Will, Finn Wolfhard as Mike, Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas, Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin, Natalia Dyer as Nancy, Charlie Heaton as Jonathan, Sadie Sink as Max, Maya Hawke as Robin, Joe Keery as Steve, David Harbour as Jim Hopper, and Winona Ryder as Joyce. Plus more returning stars like Amybeth McNulty and Priah Ferguson!

Even though Joseph Quinn's Eddie met a tragic fate at the end of Stranger Things 4, he recently hinted we could be seeing the beloved character again. During the April 2024 Facts Convention in Belgium, when a fan asks whether he'll return for the final season, Joseph takes his time to respond (and looks somewhat nervous, might I add). "I do know [whether Eddie's in season 5]," the Fantastic Four actor finally says. "But I'm not telling you."

We've seen deceased characters return as hallucinations before, so I wouldn't be surprised if Stranger Things season 5 features all the characters we've been missing — especially if Millie Bobby Brown's Eleven defeats Vecna and turns the Upside Down into a place of beauty instead of a place of horror.

Will Millie be in season 5?

Netflix

Yes, Millie Bobby Brown is in Stranger Things 5! She sat down with MTV's Josh Horowitz ahead of her new movie Damsel to talk about the end of the series, and confirmed the vibe is "the exact same" as it's always been.

"I wish I could be like, 'Everybody's crying everyday.' But everybody's having fun!" she says in the interview. "I know closer to the end, we're gonna think about the end, but right now it's nice and it's really fun to be back together again...[We may be] a few months toward the end but we know it's a long road ahead. So right now we're living in bliss."

Who isn't returning to Stranger Things 5?

Netflix

Eduardo Franco, who played Jonathan's friend Argyle in Stranger Things 4, said in an interview with Steve Varley that he wouldn't be returning for the final season of the show. “It’s nice to hear that there’s some sort of, you know, concern or something, you know what I mean?” Eduardo says. “But I never got a phone call, so I think that’s it.”

And while Eddie Munson (played by Joseph Quinn) became one of the series' most popular characters, his death in the finale feels pretty permanent. "I really don’t know,” Joseph told British GQ in 2022. “[Eddie] seems pretty f—king dead to me...By no means am I ruling it out. That’s a decision for the grown-ups to make. But Stranger Things was doing fine without Eddie. I think they’ll be fine next season without him, too.”

Who is the new character in Stranger Things 5?

Netflix

Linda Hamilton (The Terminator, Children of the Corn) is joining the Stranger Things 5. We don't know what kind of role she'll be playing, but we do know she loves Stranger Things as much as we do. “I don’t know how to be a fangirl and an actress at the same time,” she said in a video announcement at Netflix's Tudum event. “I’m gonna work on that.”

Is there a Stranger Things spinoff coming?

Netflix

"There are still many more exciting stories to tell within the world of Stranger Things," the Duffers say in their statement announcing the end of the series. "New mysteries, new adventures new unexpected heroes."

In addition to the Stranger Things: The First Shadowstage play in London, we're also getting a live-action spinoff via Netflix. No one knows what the spinoff is about — except for Finn Wolfhard, who happened to guess it!

Is Millie Bobby Brown done with Stranger Things?

Netflix

Millie Bobby Brown is returning as Eleven, but she said in an interview with Women’s Wear Daily that she's looking forward to the next chapter of life. Now 20, she started the series when she was 11 years old. “It’s been such a huge factor in part of my life, but it’s like graduating high school, it’s like senior year,” she says. “You’re ready to go and blossom and flourish and you’re grateful for the time you’ve had, but it’s time to create your own message and live your own life.”

Other members of the cast have also expressed their thoughts on the show's end.

“It’s interesting to constantly just be reminded how much people have resonated with it," Gaten Matarrazzo said onTheTonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. "It’s something that’s so important to all of us and has just been essential to the growth that I’ve had over all of my teenage years into my 20s. It’s the defining aspect of the past 10 years of my life.”

Even if Finn Wolfhard, isn't quite ready for the show to end, he knows it's time. "If Stranger Things went on any longer than five, I would say it would be ridiculous,” Wolfhard told Uproxx. “I think the Duffer brothers figured out, I would imagine, a perfect ending in five. We didn’t even know if we’d do two. So we’re happy that people still are around and want to watch it.”

Your First Look At Stranger Things 5 Fan Favorite Dustin Henderson

Ross Duffer/Instagram

After sharing images of Joe Keery and Maya Hawke as Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley, co-creator Ross Duffer shared a picture of Gaten Matarazzo's Dustin in full Hellfire Club gear. Gaten's doing the signature move of fan favorite character Eddie Munson (who died at the end of Stranger Things 4), and a new leaked photo from set connects Dustin and Eddie in another way, too.

The image shows Dustin at Eddie's grave, which has been vandalized with spray paint. The only word we can clearly make out is "Burn," but considering Eddie led the Hellfire club, it's safe to assume the spray paint reads "Burn in Hell" — especially after the Satanic Panic plotline in ST4 turned all of Hawkins against Eddie. If Dustin is the new leader of the club, and the town still hates it, I'm going to need him to watch his back. STAY SAFE DUSTIN.

I will forever and always be a Steve stan, but let us know who you're most excited to see in Stranger Things 5, in the comments and on Facebook. And check out our TikTok for more fun celeb and pop culture content — like seeing Millie Bobby Brown at a Brooklyn Nets game!

This post has been updated.

Zach Bryan and Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia's explosive breakup is everywhere right now. From his seemingly one-sided social media posts to all the bombshell revelations she keeps dropping, it's clear this split is NOT amicable. Both parties are dropping tons of lore, info, and everything in between — including new music?! — right now, so it makes sense if you can't keep up. Luckily, I'm here to help break this breakup down for you! Here's everything you need to know about Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry's relationship...or lack thereof.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

October 22, 2024 – Zach Bryan Announces His Breakup With Brianna Chickenfry

On October 22, 2024, after some recent speculation that Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry split up, Zach took to his Instagram stories. The country star said, "Addressing something: Brianna and me have broken up with [each other] and I respect and love her with every ounce of my heart. She has loved me unconditionally for a very long time and for that I'll always thank her."

He continued, noting, "I have had an incredibly hard year personally and struggled through some pretty severe things. I thought it would be beneficial for both of us to go our different ways. I am not perfect and never will be. Please respect Brianna's privacy and space in this and if you have it in your heart, mine too."

To wrap it all up, he closed by apologizing to his fans. He said, "With everything I am and to anyone I let down, I am sorry. I try my best in everything. I failed people that love me and mostly myself."

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Brianna hopped on her own Instagram stories shortly there after. She posted, "Hey guys I'm feeling really blindsided right now. Gonna hop off social media for a while and attempt to heal privately, when I'm ready I'll be back and ready to talk. I love you guys so much thank you for all of your kind words. Remember you are so loved and everything's always gonna be okay 🫶"

The Brianna got on Youtube next, posting a raw, emotional video about the situation. Sitting on the floor of her bathroom, she opened up as much as she could in the moment about her breakup. She said, "I just woke up to Zach posting on his Instagram that we broke up and I had no idea that post was going up. He didn't text me, he didn't call me. I just woke up to a bunch of texts, like, 'Are you okay?'"

Brianna, with her teary eyes and red face, explained she's been crying for "five days straight." She said, "I'm at the point where it's like, how can you give someone everything and love them so unconditionally, like through stuff that you shouldn't because you just love them and you want them... like you see the good in them?"

The internet personality said that this is all "so embarrassing" and "really, really heartbreaking." She elaborated that the couple broke up on October 21, but wanted to process on her own and "didn't want it to be public."

Much like her Instagram story, she told her audience that she'll come back when she's ready.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

November 7, 2024 — Brianna Claims Zach's Emotionally Abusive, Wanted $12Mil NDA

Well, it appears this week, Brianna decided she's ready. On Barstool Sports' BFF's Pod November 7, 2024, Brianna gave an inside look at the breakup unlike any other. Not only did she claim Zach was abusive, but she also alleged that he offered her a $12 million NDA to "not talk about the relationship."

After saying it's been the hardest year of her life, she said. "I'm still scared right now because I'm scared of him. My brain's rewired and I'm scared to make him mad and last week, I didn't want to talk about it 'cause I was scared."

Brianna then described the alleged emotional abuse. She noted that everything was cyclical and that he would build her up only to break her back down again. "There was always another excuse as to why he was treating me so poorly and why I'm crying myself to sleep every night, why he's screaming at me," she said. "And then you wake up, it's the apology, it's the 'I'm going to be better like I need you in my life,' but if you've been through this — I don't expect people to understand emotional abuse if you haven't been through it. I hope you never have to go through it but if you've been there you know what I'm talking about."

Not only does Brianna allege she was offered an NDA, but she said that other women that came before her had to sign their own agreements. She declined the offer because she didn't want to "sign away [her] experiences and what [she] went through to protect someone that hurt [her]." She also wanted to share this experience for other women who've suffered something similar.

And when it comes to the logistics of losing out on the famous lifestyle and alleged $12 million? She said, "It was never about the money — I was with the dude because I loved the dude."

Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

November 8, 2024 — Zach Quit Touring Amid Abuse Allegations

On November 8, 2024, Zach posted on Instagram — where he clearly loves to share all his big news — that not only is his new single "High Road" out today, but that he's also ending his tour early. Read his full statement here:

After not being home for a year and a half I drove out to my mothers gravestone in the dead of night a few days back on familiar Oklahoma roads and I came to realize just like in the past, that she never would call me again

Told her I quit touring because I got accepted to get my masters in Paris next year, I told her I was back in Oklahoma, told her about all my best friends in New York and all the nights we howled with the moon, told her about the immeasurable laughter my band and me have shared these last five years, all the calluses on my finger tips, every tear shed, told her about making it on The Rolling Stone and most importantly told her about porch swinging with my beautiful sister.
I wrote the chorus for this song a month or two back and finished it when I realized I was blessed with all these things.

I figured it was about time I released it.

Thank you guys for listening to ‘This Worlds a Giant’ last night and thank you to all the people who love me; who have truly carried the weight with me.

Seems that all these Quiet Dreams have gotten much too heavy but I’m home now and I’ll hold you through the pain.

High Road is out today and I appreciate all of you"

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