Bob Newby's Death in 'Stranger Things' Was Originally Much Darker

While many Stranger Things fans rallied for #JusticeForBarb after Nancy Wheeler’s best friend was abducted to the Upside Down in the first season, there was no scene more sad in the series than Bob Newby’s death. Played by Sean Astin, Bob was Joyce Byers’ quirky and sweet new boyfriend, who ultimately died a hero when saving the gang from a terrifying group of Demodogs.

As upsetting as the scene was, it turns out Bob almost had a much worse death, at the hands of someone we know and love. Producers Dan Cohen and Shawn Levy previously revealed the original, much darker plan they had for the beloved character.

“We had talked about the death of some major characters, that may or may not happen in the future near or far. But that was never part of the discussion for Season 2,” Levy stated. “The death of Bob was initially much earlier. In fact, in an early outline, Evil Will kill him in like Episode 3.”

The pair went on explain Bob’s death was supposed to be in the scene where he and Will are in the car, as he attempts to give Will advice. “Will just straight-up murders Bob in that car,” they recounted. The scene in question turned out to be pretty sweet, as Bob tells Will what he was afraid of growing up, even making him laugh. Thankfully, they decided to change the original plan.

Although we unfortunately will not see Bob again come Season 3, we have the rest of the gang to look forward to when Stranger Things returns on July 4.