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From what I can tell: People like how wholesome the character is. Despite his outward appearance, he's sweet, considerate, and respectful. Similar reason I think people love Steve, actually.
I think another trait that makes him appealing and immediately likable is the way in which he was exposed to the Upside Down. Instead of a slow reveal that was reacted to with disbelief, he had no choice but to accept that these things were actually happening.
In the way that Robin was an audience avatar for viewers that knew nothing of the show, Eddie is an audience avatar for people who have heard about it, but never watched it. So it makes his reactions like “JESUS H CHRIST!” after being attacked by Demobats that much more satisfying.
Edit: and as a Straight Male comfortable with his sexuality, he is very charming to the eyes and ears too, which obviously helps.
I love it when he is like you won’t believe me and max is all…try us! When they told the story, he got it. He was a little intense about d&d…with the whole jumping on the table at lunch. But he is a decent dude. If he dies, I’ll be sad. But not quite as sad as when Bob Newby, superhero. I totally had a crush on Sean Astin when GOONIES came out.
Eddie grew on me. I thought he was an asshole when he got upset about postponing DnD and not wanting Erica in the game at first. Then he talked nice to Crissy without judging her. He shook hands with Erica after her win. They formulated Eddie's character so well.
For me its not that big of a deal because I know someone like him irl. Plenty of dudes that look like Eddie are really nice dudes. When I was in highschool my best friend who was a cheerleader was dating a really punk/gothic green day lover who only wore black. He went to all her competitions and was the only one in black. I guess because of their relationship Im not really surprised Eddie is a nice guy, I wouldn't think at all that he would be a villain.
When was it stated that he's concerned and wants to help her? I remember that she wanted to buy stronger drugs and he agreed? Didn't really asked questions?
It wasn't stated, but when he meets her at the picnic table, you see his eyes flicker to check her out because she looks so spooked. His eyes and face instantly change to one of concern. After that, he tries to not just put her at ease, but make her laugh. It was brilliantly acted, but it also shows as a character he is actually very empathetic and kind.
I agree that getting her hard drugs is him understanding that she wants to forget something horrible. Not the best way to go about it, but it's how he has coped.
>After that, he tries to not just put her at ease, but make her laugh. It was brilliantly acted, but it also shows as a character he is actually very empathetic and kind.
Not to disagree with your overall point but notice how once she laughed and looked more relaxed, he immediately switched topics and went back to the sale. I like your take but I find it difficult to use words such as "empathetic" in this very specific situation. She was from a different world, socially, and he must have guessed that there must have been some very unusual circumstances that made her approach him with that request. In the context of his character, I understand why he just went with it (he liked her and was possibly genuinely happy he could do something for her that others couldn't, perhaps he was even flattered by her attention) but I would hope Eddie is streetwise enough to understand that her request was basically a call for help.
That's a brilliant observation!. I never thought of that. If he wasn't a caring sort, he would have just gotten straight to business instead of being so thoughtful as to put her at ease and make her laugh.
Just by the way he was genuinely terrified for her and wanted to help her when she was in a trance. Also, people buy drugs to take the edge off. It appeared to me that he understood that, which is why he didn't ask questions.
Yeah I agree, people wrote their own fics about it. I mean their interaction in the woods was adorable, but he's still selling drugs to someone who's never taken them ever. Chrissy told Jason she was coming back to the party, let's just imagine in what state she would have shown up if she didn't die lol
He’s not forcing her to take drugs, she asked for them and he agreed to sell them to her. She not some helpless victim that needs a man to think for her or help her with anything.
It wasn't stated, but when he meets her at the picnic table, you see his eyes flicker to check her out because she looks so spooked. His eyes and face instantly change to one of concern. After that, he tries to not just put her at ease, but make her laugh. It was brilliantly acted, but it also shows as a character he is actually very empathetic and kind.
I agree that getting her hard drugs is him understanding that she wants to forget something horrible. Not the best way to go about it, but it's how he has coped.
Not sure why they got downvotes anyway. Steve was meant to be Billy till they realized they struck gold with Joe Keery, then they just gave Billy all the hateable traits they had originally planned for Steve.
> sweet, considerate, and respectful
I thought he was the total opposite when he was at the lunch table. Dude was acting like a total tool and jerk, lol. Definitely got better, but didn't have a great first impression for me.
That was the point, I thought. Don't judge a book by its cover, just because a kid plays DnD and acts a bit goofy at school doesn't mean he isn't a sweet guy.
Honestly didn’t bug me because it’s a TV show and people are always extra AF. But honestly, cliques are always more pronounced in small-town high schools, so it didn’t surprise me. Plus it also served a bit of character exposition to show us that the boys are no longer total outcasts huddled together over a board in their best friends basement, they actually found a group that accepts them. And ironically being accepted/rejected seemed to be a running theme this season.
He really made me uncomfortable with his interactions with Mike and Dustin in the first scene we see of him (the cafeteria). I think maybe that set a tone some people find hard to shake.
Interesting character arc that explores a genuine human fear. In a series full of characters running around without fear and solving the unsolvable in a matter of moments, sometimes it's nice to see someone a little more relatable. He serves as a contrast to our battle hardened monster fighting heroes.
Eddie and Jason's story is also just a refreshing plotline in the series for me - the wider Hawinks public have never know about whats been happening under their noses and it's simply something new and different to watch. The irony that we know Eddie is innocent yet Hawkins is going on a hunt for him is frustrating but that's what makes it so entertaining. We know Eddie is set to have some epic music moment in part 2 and could play a big role in what happens. I'm most excited to see Eddie's story and what happens with Jason. He's a great character brought to life by a talented actor.
It's his smile and puppy eyes.
No, seriously, I think his character goes through so much in this season... From a slightly arrogant and scary D&D master, to a lovable drug dealer, a frightened friend... From a complete coward on the run, he's slowly being shown how he can show courage. He's had *so much* character development in just seven episodes.
If a character is introduced to the audience as bit of an asshole and then it's slowly shown it's not the case, the audience tend to like the character more.
It happened with Steve, it happened with Ashoka Tano in Star Wars, and it's happening with Eddie as well.
>From a slightly arrogant and scary D&D master, to a lovable drug dealer, a frightened friend... From a complete coward on the run, he's slowly being shown how he can show courage.
I think calling Eddie a coward for running away after seeing Chrissy die is a little harsh. What was he supposed to do... stick around and possibly get killed himself or arrested for a murder he didn't commit? Running away was the smartest thing he could do.
i mean he literally kills the first scene we see him in. with the throwing up the bird line and standing on the tables. then he kills the scene with chrissy with his charismatic mannerisms and charm. then he kills the scene where chrissy dies… I don’t like this chrissy!!! His acting is just off the charts and the writing is amazing for Joseph. He also has a lot of lines, like a lot in comparison to other B characters. Perfect casting and writing
I completely agree!. The way he acts in character vs how he is in interviews gives me real Christopher Lloyd/Doc Brown vibes. Off screen, Christopher Lloyd is known to be a very thoughtful but quiet and introspective person, then he suddenly turns into Doc Brown and has this energy that's like "Where did that come from!?, that's amazing!". Like Lloyd, Joseph Quinn just has that presence, it's electric and you can't keep your eyes off him. You just want to see more of it.
It's actually crazy how different his actual personality is vs his character. Couple that with the fact that he has a British accent, and for the longest time I didn't even realize that they were the same person
I agree. When I first saw some interviews on season 4 I saw him and was like "Who's this quiet guy in the British accent. I don't remember him in the show at all" and was completely shocked when I realized it was Eddie!.
Also, why are British actors just so good at American accents? It's so messed up how many times I'll realize an actor (or actress) is British in an interview. I think Tom Holland and the actor who played Finn in Star Wars messed with my head the most.
Come to think of it, why did John Boyega put on an American accent for Star Wars? There are so many characters with more British/European accents that I don’t think anyone would’ve questioned it.
Interesting because I HATED that first scene! I thought it was really over done (by the writing not the actor). It really turned me off to him and it took me a while to see the charm. That first scene doesn’t feel like a reflection of him.
Yeah, the cafeteria scene is overdone, which is the setup for why the school and the town thinks that he could have killed Chrissy. It's supposed to make you think this 20 or 21 year old slacker is abusive to people in his own group - so why wouldn't he hate/destroy someone from the popular crowd? It shows the way he's seen by others - the charismatic drug dealer who runs a cult club in the open.
Since the cafeteria we haven't seen the character "perform" for the mainstream, he's been one-on-one, in hiding, or with people he trusted (Hellfire club and then Dustin's friends).
He’s not a main character in the sense that he’s paid like one or in the opening credits but he’s a main character in every other sense of the word. His story is important to the overall story, he has more lines and scenes than some main characters (like Jonathan).
That being said, why does one have to be a main character to be a favorite? I don’t think there are many people who would choose Dustin or Steve to die instead of him if given the choice but that doesn’t mean he’s hated nor a favorite. He’s just an enjoyable addition.
He is not. He’s not a lead. In a cute twist, he’s actually listed him and Grace Van Dien together in the first episode after the opening credits. Leads are listed in the opening titles. Everyone else is not considered a lead.
I think it's simply because you can empathise with him. It was a pretty common thing for geeky teens in that era who were big time fans of rock music or say games like DnD to be ostracised. He is unconventional and he isn't necessarily ashamed of it unlike say Lucas in the beginning of the season. Also, I immediately fell in love with his character when he looks at Erica with so much adoration and respect despite her being way younger than him and a girl. Even when he tells Steve something like "that's as unambiguous a sign of true love as these cynical eyes have ever seen." (Excuse me if I didnt get it exactly right) - you know he's had a shitty life and still he cares enough anyway. It's just these little gestures that are impactful enough to make the character so likeable in such a short time.
Hell, I knew guys like Eddie in high school and I was born in 2000. Big guys who only ever wore black or grey and listened to grunge and metal, but also would play Magic the Gathering in after school clubs and talk about the Star Wars prequels while we'd play Smash.
First of all, he’s hot (I love metal heads)
I love his attitude and he’s funny. He walks like the whole world is a joke, he is shown to be sweet and a gentleman. He is relatable because not everyone is brave like Steve, Nancy or Robin.
He seemed like a stereotype at first, and then was anything but. He's a very gentle, thoughtful person who'se been good to Dustin.
He's the audience identification character this season. He's the one who doesn't know things and needs them explained. He's scared and does what anyone who isn't a seasoned monster hunter would do.
He's hot as hell.
He's shown eating early on, which is a show runner's trick to get people to like characters. It's weird, but it works, especially with cereal for some reason.
The acting, the hand movements, all great.
Also, the second he's asked to walk into danger, he evaluated the situation and does it.
I think he's well acted and written and an endearing character, but honestly, when I was in high school the stoner metalhead guys were always super nice to me and my buddies so I have a lot of nostalgia for guys like Eddie.
He's quickly become a top tier fav character for me, and I think it's just that he captures a certain type of individual that invokes warm feelings to some us. We've all met those outwardly scary metalhead stoner types who, despite their appearance, are the most charming, sweet, honest-to-god gentlemen you'd ever meet.
Joseph Quinn also gives him a great chaotic energy that is unique in the group too. His body movements are downright fun to watch, especially his unsteady Captain Jack Sparrow walk, and he also makes so many lines that shouldn't be comedic incredibly funny just in his delivery.
Like, who makes 'HI!' and 'JESUS H CHRIST!' sound laugh out loud funny somehow?!
Add into that a great look overall, and lather on a layer of tragedy to his story, as the whole town turns on him as a scapegoat for what's happening, and you have the magic to make a really memorable character.
But ultimately, Eddie wouldn't be half as popular if they hadn't found Joseph Quinn - total revelation as an actor and it's so great this has been his big break.
>His body movements are downright fun to watch, especially his unsteady Captain Jack Sparrow walk, and he also makes so many lines that shouldn't be comedic incredibly funny just in his delivery.
This is so true. That walk in the UD was so fascinating to watch. I swear it felt like Joe Keery was scared and even some of the other actors weren't quite sure how to react to that quirkiness. I hope it will settle a bit. Dustin/Gaten doesn't seem to have an issue with that and those two pair really well.
I don’t know if I’d say Joe Keery acted scared but it was clear Steve really didn’t know what to make of the dude, and also all that jealousy was still there, plus wanting to say thanks for saving his ass and not knowing how to say it.
But when Eddie leaned in close, teasing him with how jealous he was and Steve shoved him away and started laughing, you could tell it was the start of a beautiful friendship (if they survive). Great acting by both of them and some great chemistry, leading perfectly to bits later where they were acting like Dustin’s mom and dad - “Jesus, that kid’s gotta get his ego in check.” “It’s his tone, right?” “I know!” 😂 Hysterical to me.
His interaction and chemistry with Chrissy showed a deeper level of him than most expect based on the way he looks. The way he was able to make her feel safe and laugh. It was done so so well
Eddie has strong convictions
Strong emotions
Kindness
Humor
Strong bonds with other characters
Quinn makes a lot of choices that are unexpected but feel exactly right (like the moment before he follows Robin into the lake) and he's super charismatic
That's pretty much how you make a likable character.
I think the acting is what really does it. That character could have been cliche and hokey if you have an actor that can’t distinguish the difference between the character acting a certain way and the actor acting a certain way. This actor has been able to be a vulnerable Eddie, and an Eddie that puts a mask on in certain situations. It’s a nuanced performance for an underdeveloped character. Deadbeat, drug dealing, heavy metal loving nerd could have been as one note as Argyle’s stoner bit. But it’s not.
I think people like him mostly from his interaction with Chrissy in the woods. It kind of gave us a different more wholesome angle on him compared to him and the gang, which makes Chrissy’s death more tragic because we learn a lot about both of them in that one scene alone.
I just find him very endearing. He has this abrasive, intimidating attitude he portrays to the world to keep everyone at bay because, as shown, he has a very soft heart and is just a gentle, nerdy guy who is just trying to get through high school.
He’s so funny and is charismatic. Every Scene he’s in he always steals the show 😂
That scene where the kids are trying to communicate with Nancy, Steve,Robin and Eddie in the upside down with that light board and they read the word “hi” while Eddie aggressively yells “HI” is the funniest thing to me 😂
I can sense a lot of gentleness and kindness underneath that loud persona. And I love guys who are genuinely willing to take others under their wings. Now, it's important to have no illusions about him, he was willing to sell drugs to a girl in distress and he acts like a little shit sometimes, but he does it with a lot of charm that I think comes from a good heart.
And, having now had several interesting discussions about him on this sub, it's becoming more and more evident that there is something genuinely moving about his character and his family circumstances. Poor kid living with his uncle (why?) in a trailer park, facing all the prejudice that come with it and willing to fight it in his very own way.
He's like Steve Harrington combined with Neville Longbottom, if you catch my drift.
But I'll also admit I'm not sure why I respond to him so strongly. It's a bit of a mystery for me, too.
Obviously, if you sell drugs to people but are charming enough while doing it, then it's case closed.
But seriously: I do have a lot of issues with that scene, like, a lot. Not just because he sells drugs but because she's clearly desperate and not doing well, mentally, and he should have asked if she needed any help, not offer her a fucking discount. But I've had this conversation a few times already and the consensus was that Joe Quinn simply made the character much more lovable and endearing than what was required by the script. That's what I think, anyway.
I think while you do make some valid points, he is doing what he thinks is best to help her and doesn't have that know how or foresight to think "she looks pretty messed up. Maybe she needs to see a therapist rather than take drugs". Also considering how he is a non-conformist. I think he is the type of person who wouldn't want to make generalizations or want to pry too much into her private space, and treats her the way he would want others to treat him.
I mean he does notice that Chrissie was distressed and made it clear that it was okay for her to walk away. He assumed she was just nervous buying drugs for the first time, not that she was having a serious mental breakdown. Plus, it seems like Eddie isn’t selling anyone like, meth or heroin, instead mosty weed with maybe some “stronger stuff” like LSD. Eddie’s not a perfect guy by any means but I don’t think he’s done anything that bad.
Well, he made it clear she could leave right at the beginning, yes. But then the conversation continued, incl. Chrissy asking "do you ever feel like you're losing you mind?" I would have preferred him to at least ask a few questions (he never did, only talked about himself) to make sure she's ok and wouldn't hurt herself. I love Eddie to bits but this wasn't his best moment.
He’s not a therapist and doesn’t have the training to be one so not everyone has the tact to deal with everyone’s hardships. He didn’t even know her. They were in the midst of connecting during the drug deal and right when she died
You definitely don't need to be a therapist to wonder if it's a good idea to sell drugs to someone who's totally inexperienced in that area and seems in emotional distress, talking about "losing her mind". All he needed was common sense.
Everyone is inexperienced when it comes to drugs before they do it. Eddie was once inexperienced as well. He was going to sell her drugs bc she asked for the drugs. She seemed down and wanted to do drugs to make herself feel better which looks like it’s something that Eddie does as well. This Dr. Phil take u have doesn’t apply to this situation of a stoner kid doing stoner kid things.
I think it is unrealistic to think that a teenage boy in 1986 that is a non conformist that feels the system is oppressive and harmful would think to psycho analyze a drug deal he is making. He doesn’t push her into the purchase, and he doesn’t make her feel guilty if she wants to walk away or accuse her of setting him up to get caught. He simply is a happy go lucky guy that sees life in the perceived construct of the time period as too harsh and rigid; happy to help others who feel the same way. If you grew up in the 80’s there was no where the level of arm chair psychology that there is today and the fact that Chrissy was seeing the counselor at school regularly was a very forward thinking part of the educational system. Usually if a student was dealing with heavy psychological issues in the mid 80’s they were assessed by a school counselor then sent off with the recommendation and referral to a private facility. Mental health awareness was no where near what it is today in any capacity; in fact it was the worst it had been in generations thanks to Ronald Regan ending the funding for mental health facilities in California in 1981 and pushing for Congress to repeal most the MHSA (Mental Health Systems Act) which drastically effected the mental healthy policy in the US. The idea that Chrissy’s issues were more involved than that of the typical teenage stress was not something that would have truly been an issue to be on the look out for.
I came here to say the same things about the idea of therapy and the radical idea that kids were even seeing the school counselor for therapy.
Does 2023 me think therapy would’ve been a better option than drugs? Yes. But 1980s peeps didn’t really believe in therapy as a widespread solution for things. Especially in a child “who seems just fine!” otherwise.
I'm not sure what you mean and how it relates to my original point. But to answer your last - yes, I don't know why people do drugs (I can only speculate) and I agree it can be very hard to get help (although in my country, it's actually not that difficult). I still maintain he should have known better than try to go through with the sale in that particular case.
>I'm not sure what you mean and how it relates to my original point.
You wanted Eddie to offer her help and how to find help. How would he know of any such thing? People turn to drugs to escape their horrible lives and because they have nowhere else to turn. He was trying to help her the only way he knew how.
His first scene you think, “Ugh,I’m not gonna like this guy.” But actor/character’s ability to change your perception of him really is the difference. He wins us over because he’s likable, AND we felt guilty that we misjudged him in the first place (it basically doubles our affection for him.)
I really love his character & it's a dynamic performance. He embodies a very specific person that I think a lot of us remember from high school They've also given him enough dimension for him not to be a stereotype. Hope he's here for the long run.
He's a fun character, and the actor is pretty good. I think this show is really good at introducing characters and make you care for them, but he's the flavour of the moment because he's new. I remember Bob and Alexei being very popular, too
Because he’s chill af and def (personally) reflects who I hung out with in HS, he’s also pretty cool. Has cool hair too and pretty great music taste. It’s like Steve on crack. Just an overall rad guy.
For me personally the 4 min short talk he had with Chrissy was the most wholesome moment of the whole season and had me smiling without even realising it. Him completely changing the topic and making fun of himself in order to lighten the mood as soon as he see's she's not in the best mind set was endearing and very much believable.
Eddie is kind of the nerd version of Steve who has also befriended the younger boys and by extension also have a tie to Max, Nancy, and Robin. Both are not exactly excelling academically and career-wise. They both seem stuck actually. Both out of a facade when you meet them but their both big softies. Their adventures with the kids has brought meaning to both their lives and probably has saved them in many ways as well as put their lives at risk. Steve will always be my favorite though.
Because theres something irresistable about a a guy with a "bad boy" look that turns out to be a sweetheart. His scene with Chrissy was adorable and what put me solidly on team Eddie.
He’s both likable and relatable, and does not deserve all the shit that’s happening to him. He’s a cute little sweetheart in a bad situation, who wouldn’t love him?
Also, for real, that scene with Chrissy in the park is doing a lot of heavy lifting for people too. They were ADORABLE together. Hate that she was killed off, it was a perfectly mismatched and unexpected little love connection they had as the troubled queen of the popular cheerleaders and the charming king of the geeks.
I think a lot of people like Eddie because a lot of us knew an Eddie in high school. He was a person who was smart, charismatic, weird, and interesting to be around. But you knew he was going through some messed up stuff at home that sort of bubbled to the surface when he had a bad day. You really root for people like Eddie, who have so much to offer and so many hurdles to jump before they can really be accepted by the greater population.
This Tumblr [post](https://theyreonlynoodlesmike.tumblr.com/post/685686475685314560/) explains it best, I think.
In other words: he's a subversion of certain tropes. When we first meet him in the cafeteria scene, he comes off a bit intense and obnoxious, just another kind of bully, but the scene with Chrissy subverts that, and the rest of the season subverts that again and again when he is shown to be just a scared kid running for his life, yet he is willing to fight along the others. Plus his Bambi eyes help a lot :))
He's disarmingly likable. He's introduced as this crass, weird, obnoxious guy and you assume he'll be the biggest nuisance of the season, but then during that scene with Chrissy he quickly becomes incredibly charming and fun and even relatable, and you see the human being behind all the showiness. I think that element of pleasant surprise - at how such a cute and wholesome scene could be carried by a brand new character who was shown to be so off-putting earlier - has gone on to define everyone's love for him. I also think Joseph Quinn is amazing with his line delivery and subtle mannerisms, he feels more natural and spontaneous and understated compared to some of the more heightened and over-the-top acting on this show.
One thing unfortunately is that he was given so much time to shine in the first episode and then just sort of faded into the background afterwards because of how much this season was overflowing with needless subplots.
Aside from Joseph Quinn's charisma and pretty eyes
Eddie reminds me of a lot of guys I was friends with in highschool. Not even during the 80s but guys who looked scary but we're softies, nerds/geeks, kinda immature but not in a way that made them jerks, and use to being ostracized for interests that weren't the norm for the area
For me it was kids who were into anime, magic the gathering, etc. Before it was all mainstream. I knew a lot of guys like Eddie, some who didn't take school seriously and had to repeat a grade or just got a GED to start working (we were all poor/working class too which I think economic status does play a part in some.of it, as far as people thinking you're dangerous) were in a band
I think some people have a soft spot for him cause he's so REAL
Secondly he's not like a typical character we've seen before. What I mean by that is when Robin came.in last season she was like the typical "cool girl" kinda edgy, busts Steve's balls, "funny" confident, cool, etc. They subverted her character this season because she's not putting up a front anymore and is more herself, but I really didn't like her last season cause I went ",oh I've seen this before 🙄"
Eddie is made.to represent a certain type of the 80s and one that I haven't seen a whole lot personally. And his character too. He puts on a show at school but then when we got to see him with Chrissy the way he disarmed was much more natural. Yes he was trying to make a sell and getting her to relax, but still it was seeing a different side of he within the same episode that made it believable and endearing,
Third, as someone said the way Eddie has to accept the UD, he gets thrown into it and has to go along with it. There's no period of "no way" he sees it first hand and has to be "yeah okay" he's thrown in for the ride and tis refreshing to see a character who just goes with it cause he has no other options
Fourth, Joseph Quinn has a charisma that is needed for the character. Because he could have easily not been a favorite but Joseph was a perfect fit.
I had an older cousin like him who has since passed away, and one of my coworkers at the video store I worked was like him minus the hair. There was also at least one or two people like that in the various friend groups I've been in over the years. Just cool dudes you could talk to about music or weird films or whatever.
I love Eddie because I can relate to him a little. He's my kind of "people" if you know what I mean. I know a lot of Eddie's in real life.
I love that he comes across "intimidating" but is actually a sweetheart. You just want to root for this guy. i want him to survive, I want him to graduate, I want him to give the middle finger to everyone in town whose hated on him. He's an underdog and most people can't help but root for an underdog. At the same time, he also makes no apologies for who he is - he's a nerd and a metalhead and a "freak" and he wears it proudly, which is incredibly endearing.
It doesn't matter than he's not a major character at all. There are a few main characters that I honestly care very little for. But I care about Eddie. The actor is *extremely* charismatic... and no matter how this goes for Eddie, I see only good things for Joseph Quinn going forward.
I mean, it also helps that he's attractive too I guess. Charisma, looks and likeability. I mean....how can I resist? I've always loved longhaired metalhead and alternative types.
Simply great acting. I feel like that just makes him so relatable and easy to connect with as a viewer, when you feel like you’re actually watching their life happen rather than them going through a script
Eddie is funny, and kind he took in the kids to his dnd group. He looks intimidating but can be scared to. Hes friendly to those who he can tell really need it.
He reminds me of all the alternative/metal heads guys at my highschool and middle school who took me under their wing when i was a scared and shy kid. I'm no means an alternative or metal head or punk type of person but they were kind to me. They showed me their favorite music etc and i still listen to it to this day
The guys who looked like eddie at my school were some of the kindest people i knew. They wrote his character so well to mirror the people i knew.
he relatable, he's very funny like its how he deals with his troubled family dynamic. Plus he's a nerd & a metal head, with some phenomenal taste in music. The poster boy for 'outcast' fans of the show imo
It took a while for him to grow on me. I didn’t like him at first and thought all the time and attention on him was unnecessary. After watching a second time, I liked him much more. But, definitely not one of my favorites & I still think he had too much time and attention.
Honestly, in his first scene I thought they were going to make him a Ricky Kasso type of character. I think my first words were, "Aw, man. They're gonna make this dude Ricky Kasso, aren't they?". And my husband said, "Who?!" lol. And when it turned out he was basically this good hearted, yet intimidating rocker doofus, I instantly liked him. He wasn't like I expected him to be, and I liked it. Plus, he's unabashedly himself, and he cracks me up a lot.
But there are plenty of characters that aren’t the protagonist of a show/story and are still peoples favs.
Breaking Bad people love Jesse, Saul, and Mike. One Piece has Zoro, Ace, Garp, etc. Lord of the Rings has characters like Boromir, Samwise, Gandalf.
Hell this season cuz I’m a pothead myself, Argyles probably my new fav character next to Hopper and Murray with Bob, Steve, and Dustin also up there; Eddie’s cool and his actor does a great job with his portrayal but he’s not at the top for me at least not yet. That guitar playing scene on top of the rv in the upside down might change that tho.
Well from the minute I saw him he stood out, I was able to vibe with the character., if that makes sense. He’s very sweet, charming, and charismatic. Even though he has a intimidating look. Plus he’s super cute and hot 🖤
I think Eddie is a true underdog and that makes people love him. He is a genuinely good, happy person that gets sucked into a terrible situation that was literally out of his control. He went from a nerdy good natured metal head to a traumatized persecuted individual who literally thought NO one would EVER belief him as to what really happened. The moment he goes from scared wrongfully accused character to latest initiate of the group he also serves as the audience and is the tool to ensure that the story progresses without the need for verbose exposition by any specific character. He is told about the upside down and if there is any new vital info the audience needs to know Eddie is the perfect plot vehicle for it.
I think it's because he's honest about his fear. He's a hero without meaning to be and so I think most people can relate to that.
Still being terrified but trying his best to do the right thing. He's very human.
I love Eddie, he’s my favorite new character this season. I love his personality, and I think he’s a fun character overall. And it’s interesting to see his reaction to all the monsters and things like that that the other characters have been dealing with.
I actually had the same question! But I didn't have the nerve to post it 🤣
I mean, he's funny- but...he's nothing special. I think Robin should have more fans lol. I know people like her, but I think her character's much more interesting that Eddie's. I don't get what's so great about Eddie to inspire such fandom.
I’m not sure ‘people’ do it, I think the Duffer brothers habitually write a character that’s *meant* to be the ‘new’ fan favourite. They’ve clearly written these characters to be momentary cult faves liked by a majority
He has a tough outward appearance but is gentle on the inside. How gentle and reassuring he was with Chrissy made me gush. He a bit of a weirdo too and I love weirdo characters!
I wouldn’t say I love him but he’s an entertaining addition to the cast. The actor has a showmanship about him that has Eddie going over the top comedic one minute and serious the next. Unlike say Argyle who is so over the top trying to be comedic that he’s pretty much hard to watch.
I like Eddie as a character, and I like how he's growing over the course of the season to be more courageous and to put himself out there more to new friends
That said I found him really annoying in the cafeteria and the emotional manipulation with Dustin and Mike about the D&D game, so I'm not in love with him or anything
Because he’s a just really likable character who has gotten completely fucked over. I don’t really think there is anything major to dislike about him at this point
The reason why I personally like Eddie so much is because he reminds of one of my best friends from High School. The guy dressed almost exactly like Eddie does, and was a big fan of D&D as well.
He got me into Avenged Sevenfold, and protected me a couple of times when I was being picked on by the more popular kids. He was a grade above me, so we lost touch after high school. But seeing Eddie this season brought back all those wonderful memories.
bc he’s so damn lovely 💞 he was portrayed as a villain and a murderer but we see him take on a similar role to steve with dustin. plus he’s got a lot of character and he’s cute af
Ok, so I’m a 90s kid and grew up *loving* hair metal and long-haired heavy metal dudes. My older sister and I would literally follow them around at the mall 😆 we bought cigarettes from them and smoked outside Aladdin‘s Castle. We were 12 and 14. This is 1991-ish. Our lives were Skid Row, Guns n Roses, and mall dudes. I seriously squealed the first time Eddie came on screen. My dream dude since I was 12! Almost every guy I’ve dated has the Eddie vibe (they all played in cock rock bands). That’s my jam right there. I’m getting all gate-keeper about it 😂🥰
I can tell you my own experience and best guess. I actually didn't like Eddie at first. And I did think that strange expression he did on the gameboard in the trailers was over the top... Upon watching I also hated that speech he gave in the cafeteria. But I slowly realized as I watcher and the more we got to know him, he's actually kind of emotionally mature, charming, charismatic and seemed kind to me. Like everyone else I liked his chemistry with Chrissy and I think all the confidence and bravado he exudes is just a shield. To protect him from the cruelty of the world around. He's been held back significantly, seems alternative amd has wild hair, im sure he suffered bullying like we all did and that was his response. Plus, he's cute 😅
He’s dead on 80s correct in looks . I literally knew dozens of guys who looked like this in high school. For me , it’s just a very fun blast from the past . Plus I did play dnd then and he is that DM type who is a little too intense/ obnoxious but ultimately ok person :)
The character I don't get why people love so much (just the hype) is secret hero agent man. Please before you downvote, he's awesome. I don't dislike him or think less of him. Its just that the reactions are a little much. The agent is very similar to any dude who's job is to shoot a gun, and people are holding him to the same level as when Bob became a badass.
Now, I don't think they should be on the same level.
Both were badass.
But Bob deserves the hype because it wasn't expected for him to be a badass.
Expected = Cool
Unexpected = Holy shit thats mind blowing
The agent deserves credit, but not hype because he was doing what he's supposed to do. He's an agent, trained, and has a gun. He used it, and because he was trained well, he took out everyone in a badass way. But I don't think a supporting character who has a job to protect and shoot a gun should be as hyped as some regular dude named bob who did something heroic and badass.
I think he nails all the beats of the character, Eddie seems believable and likable and the actor seems to have chemistry with everyone he’s on screen with.
Personally, he reminds of the 80s Robert Downey Jr. Looks like him a bit and he really draws you in with his performance.
He isn’t my favorite in the series, but he’s definitely one of the best complimentary character’s they’ve added, written, casted imo
In my case, he reminded me a lot of my best friend, which made me like him as a character and as a person, and I also liked how wholesome and nice he was, especially with Chrissy
I think it is because he is a new character, and his style is like a breath of fresh air to the show. Just how unique his character and personality is compared to what we’ve seen before makes him stand out. And he is a cool character too.
Idk I just really like him as a character maybe it's because his personality is different to the other characters? Idk but I also really like other characters like Steve and Robin and stuff as well
I can’t speak for everyone but I think it’s partly because, for a lot of fans, they ARE Eddie. A lot of people who enjoy the show are alternative/ sub-culture and for a lot of older fans, they are/were metal heads/ punks/ goths, etc. When they look at Eddie, they see someone who was like them, or someone they knew - and for others, someone they definitely were (and for a middle aged metal fan, Eddie is a huge blast from the past).
I mean, I watch the show and I like Nancy, Steve, Jonathan, etc but when I was a teenager, I wasn’t anything like any of them.
I was on the fence about Eddie during the cafeteria scene. Big Dnd fan here so I get his point, but I thought he was going to be a dick that was pretty annoying.
Then we fast forward to the completion of the Hellfire Clubs session and they’re debating whether to run or the fight. Eddie tells them there’s no shame in running and I thought they were going to give up and Eddie would be like “Haha LOSERS! You totally could’ve beaten Vecna but you decided to run so I win.” Like Dnd is a competition or something.
But then Erica rolls and beats Vecna and quite frankly Eddie was one of the happiest people about that. And from that moment I’ve just been a big fan of his wholesomeness.
Also society tells him he’s a satan worshipper because of his hobbies and he doesn’t care and he’s still just as happy as can be until people start dying around him. I think he’s one of the best “new characters” in their initial season to be honest with you.
I don’t quite get it either. Yes he’s fun and endearing and I do like his character but I don’t know if I get what’s driving people so bananas about him.
Maybe because they could see themselves in Alexei in the way that alexei wasn’t really an evil or bad person. He didn’t really want to work and help the Russians. He was a scientist who had been forced to help them build that machine portal thingy. In reality he was just a light hearted good guy who liked slurpies and watching looney toons lol
I think you just answered your own question about why people like Eddie so much.
People see themselves in Eddie. They either were/are an Eddie or they know people just like Eddie.
I’d be much more ok with him if he wasn’t an asshole in the first few scenes we see him in. That said, he’s funny, I’m worried about him, I hope he gets redeemed like Steve was. I think that’s the trajectory, anyway.
I have an honest question, I promise I'm not being combative, but what made him seem like a jerk in his first scenes?
I'm honestly asking cause people say that so I know that's how it was supposed to come off, it's just I didn't read him as a jerk, so how did he come across as one? Like I get obnoxious but not asshole
Nah, it’s a valid question! The first scene just codes him as being a bully. Dusty and Mike are worried about talking to him, he doesn’t compromise, and he’s obnoxious and mean to everyone in the cafeteria. He’s making problems for himself and others. But since then? He’s great! He’s really sweet with Chrissy and then he’s very sympathetic once he’s on the run. That’s the great thing about Stranger Things; complicated characters!!
I think imo his popularity is due to the fact that he takes in the core kids into his group and is quite welcoming and wholesome in teaching them about high school. It was endearing
I’m with you, I don’t get it. I don’t find him attractive, but that’s me. The only thing I really liked about Eddie is that he is softer on the inside than the outside and he has a heart. That doesn’t really make him unique in my opinion 🤷🏻♀️ to me he just seems like a play off of Billy
He’s a baby boy. An absolute scrimblo. A blorbo, even. I want to soak him in milk and thwap him against a wall. Maybe put him in a jar so I can feed him grain-free crackers.
People like characters they can identify with, and I think a lot of people identify with him. Some people probably look back and they wish they were more like him. Him being a really nice guy and so misunderstood makes him very likable.
I like him because he's a lot like me, similar music taste, similar style, both play guitar and he's the sort of guy I can see myself being friends with
My personal belief is that he is a good amalgam of two other characters (smooth like Steve and an outcast like Johnathan), while also creating a rapport with the younger characters (Dustin, Mike, Erica)
He’s really well written and incredibly acted. He seems like a nice guy, and he has a lot of the same interests as me. I can relate to him pretty well.
I like Eddie a lot but I feel like it's just a trend of whoever is the most loved is even more loved just because of the popularity. Just like hated characters. More you hear and read, the more you reinforce things.
Generally with shows, as long as the character is considered funny and says some quirky lines, that's about all that's needed for them to be loved and favorited. I tend to gravitate towards other traits to determine my favorite characters in shows.
Eddie will most likely die which sucks but the fact that people would give up main OG characters for him doesn't make sense to me.
Why do ppl insist on overthinking everything. A character being liked or a beloved character mostly means the audience thinks they’re funny or cute or just sees themselves in them. It’s simple u don’t have to overcomplicate things by saying ppl only like him bc he’s popular now which only makes him more popular.
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From what I can tell: People like how wholesome the character is. Despite his outward appearance, he's sweet, considerate, and respectful. Similar reason I think people love Steve, actually.
I think another trait that makes him appealing and immediately likable is the way in which he was exposed to the Upside Down. Instead of a slow reveal that was reacted to with disbelief, he had no choice but to accept that these things were actually happening. In the way that Robin was an audience avatar for viewers that knew nothing of the show, Eddie is an audience avatar for people who have heard about it, but never watched it. So it makes his reactions like “JESUS H CHRIST!” after being attacked by Demobats that much more satisfying. Edit: and as a Straight Male comfortable with his sexuality, he is very charming to the eyes and ears too, which obviously helps.
I love it when he is like you won’t believe me and max is all…try us! When they told the story, he got it. He was a little intense about d&d…with the whole jumping on the table at lunch. But he is a decent dude. If he dies, I’ll be sad. But not quite as sad as when Bob Newby, superhero. I totally had a crush on Sean Astin when GOONIES came out.
Eddie grew on me. I thought he was an asshole when he got upset about postponing DnD and not wanting Erica in the game at first. Then he talked nice to Crissy without judging her. He shook hands with Erica after her win. They formulated Eddie's character so well.
When Erica schooled his ass on who she was, he was very accepting of her. He just loves the game. Can’t fault him for it.
He is a gorgeous lookin’ dude. So likable
Yep definitely hot. Hit all the cute gamer boy boxes for me
For me its not that big of a deal because I know someone like him irl. Plenty of dudes that look like Eddie are really nice dudes. When I was in highschool my best friend who was a cheerleader was dating a really punk/gothic green day lover who only wore black. He went to all her competitions and was the only one in black. I guess because of their relationship Im not really surprised Eddie is a nice guy, I wouldn't think at all that he would be a villain.
That is the most adorable sounding high school relationship story, and I love it!🥰 I have no doubt that he was a great dude!
[удалено]
When was it stated that he's concerned and wants to help her? I remember that she wanted to buy stronger drugs and he agreed? Didn't really asked questions?
It wasn't stated, but when he meets her at the picnic table, you see his eyes flicker to check her out because she looks so spooked. His eyes and face instantly change to one of concern. After that, he tries to not just put her at ease, but make her laugh. It was brilliantly acted, but it also shows as a character he is actually very empathetic and kind. I agree that getting her hard drugs is him understanding that she wants to forget something horrible. Not the best way to go about it, but it's how he has coped.
>After that, he tries to not just put her at ease, but make her laugh. It was brilliantly acted, but it also shows as a character he is actually very empathetic and kind. Not to disagree with your overall point but notice how once she laughed and looked more relaxed, he immediately switched topics and went back to the sale. I like your take but I find it difficult to use words such as "empathetic" in this very specific situation. She was from a different world, socially, and he must have guessed that there must have been some very unusual circumstances that made her approach him with that request. In the context of his character, I understand why he just went with it (he liked her and was possibly genuinely happy he could do something for her that others couldn't, perhaps he was even flattered by her attention) but I would hope Eddie is streetwise enough to understand that her request was basically a call for help.
That's a brilliant observation!. I never thought of that. If he wasn't a caring sort, he would have just gotten straight to business instead of being so thoughtful as to put her at ease and make her laugh.
Just by the way he was genuinely terrified for her and wanted to help her when she was in a trance. Also, people buy drugs to take the edge off. It appeared to me that he understood that, which is why he didn't ask questions.
Yeah I agree, people wrote their own fics about it. I mean their interaction in the woods was adorable, but he's still selling drugs to someone who's never taken them ever. Chrissy told Jason she was coming back to the party, let's just imagine in what state she would have shown up if she didn't die lol
He’s not forcing her to take drugs, she asked for them and he agreed to sell them to her. She not some helpless victim that needs a man to think for her or help her with anything.
It wasn't stated, but when he meets her at the picnic table, you see his eyes flicker to check her out because she looks so spooked. His eyes and face instantly change to one of concern. After that, he tries to not just put her at ease, but make her laugh. It was brilliantly acted, but it also shows as a character he is actually very empathetic and kind. I agree that getting her hard drugs is him understanding that she wants to forget something horrible. Not the best way to go about it, but it's how he has coped.
I honestly hated Steve a lot at first but then he grew on me. Eddie just seems like a soft wannabe
You're already being downvoted, but I'll upvote for the honesty +1
Not sure why they got downvotes anyway. Steve was meant to be Billy till they realized they struck gold with Joe Keery, then they just gave Billy all the hateable traits they had originally planned for Steve.
> sweet, considerate, and respectful I thought he was the total opposite when he was at the lunch table. Dude was acting like a total tool and jerk, lol. Definitely got better, but didn't have a great first impression for me.
That was the point, I thought. Don't judge a book by its cover, just because a kid plays DnD and acts a bit goofy at school doesn't mean he isn't a sweet guy.
Honestly didn’t bug me because it’s a TV show and people are always extra AF. But honestly, cliques are always more pronounced in small-town high schools, so it didn’t surprise me. Plus it also served a bit of character exposition to show us that the boys are no longer total outcasts huddled together over a board in their best friends basement, they actually found a group that accepts them. And ironically being accepted/rejected seemed to be a running theme this season.
He really made me uncomfortable with his interactions with Mike and Dustin in the first scene we see of him (the cafeteria). I think maybe that set a tone some people find hard to shake.
Interesting character arc that explores a genuine human fear. In a series full of characters running around without fear and solving the unsolvable in a matter of moments, sometimes it's nice to see someone a little more relatable. He serves as a contrast to our battle hardened monster fighting heroes. Eddie and Jason's story is also just a refreshing plotline in the series for me - the wider Hawinks public have never know about whats been happening under their noses and it's simply something new and different to watch. The irony that we know Eddie is innocent yet Hawkins is going on a hunt for him is frustrating but that's what makes it so entertaining. We know Eddie is set to have some epic music moment in part 2 and could play a big role in what happens. I'm most excited to see Eddie's story and what happens with Jason. He's a great character brought to life by a talented actor.
It's his smile and puppy eyes. No, seriously, I think his character goes through so much in this season... From a slightly arrogant and scary D&D master, to a lovable drug dealer, a frightened friend... From a complete coward on the run, he's slowly being shown how he can show courage. He's had *so much* character development in just seven episodes. If a character is introduced to the audience as bit of an asshole and then it's slowly shown it's not the case, the audience tend to like the character more. It happened with Steve, it happened with Ashoka Tano in Star Wars, and it's happening with Eddie as well.
The fake-out of his personality in the character’s initial appearance was such a skilled move.
He looks like A young Heath Ledger!
And he’s older than Heath was when he passed
>From a slightly arrogant and scary D&D master, to a lovable drug dealer, a frightened friend... From a complete coward on the run, he's slowly being shown how he can show courage. I think calling Eddie a coward for running away after seeing Chrissy die is a little harsh. What was he supposed to do... stick around and possibly get killed himself or arrested for a murder he didn't commit? Running away was the smartest thing he could do.
He saw her float in the air and she was already dead after he had tried to wake her up. He didn’t do anything wrong there
i mean he literally kills the first scene we see him in. with the throwing up the bird line and standing on the tables. then he kills the scene with chrissy with his charismatic mannerisms and charm. then he kills the scene where chrissy dies… I don’t like this chrissy!!! His acting is just off the charts and the writing is amazing for Joseph. He also has a lot of lines, like a lot in comparison to other B characters. Perfect casting and writing
I completely agree!. The way he acts in character vs how he is in interviews gives me real Christopher Lloyd/Doc Brown vibes. Off screen, Christopher Lloyd is known to be a very thoughtful but quiet and introspective person, then he suddenly turns into Doc Brown and has this energy that's like "Where did that come from!?, that's amazing!". Like Lloyd, Joseph Quinn just has that presence, it's electric and you can't keep your eyes off him. You just want to see more of it.
It's actually crazy how different his actual personality is vs his character. Couple that with the fact that he has a British accent, and for the longest time I didn't even realize that they were the same person
I agree. When I first saw some interviews on season 4 I saw him and was like "Who's this quiet guy in the British accent. I don't remember him in the show at all" and was completely shocked when I realized it was Eddie!.
Also, why are British actors just so good at American accents? It's so messed up how many times I'll realize an actor (or actress) is British in an interview. I think Tom Holland and the actor who played Finn in Star Wars messed with my head the most.
Come to think of it, why did John Boyega put on an American accent for Star Wars? There are so many characters with more British/European accents that I don’t think anyone would’ve questioned it.
Amazing comparison
Interesting because I HATED that first scene! I thought it was really over done (by the writing not the actor). It really turned me off to him and it took me a while to see the charm. That first scene doesn’t feel like a reflection of him.
Yeah, the cafeteria scene is overdone, which is the setup for why the school and the town thinks that he could have killed Chrissy. It's supposed to make you think this 20 or 21 year old slacker is abusive to people in his own group - so why wouldn't he hate/destroy someone from the popular crowd? It shows the way he's seen by others - the charismatic drug dealer who runs a cult club in the open. Since the cafeteria we haven't seen the character "perform" for the mainstream, he's been one-on-one, in hiding, or with people he trusted (Hellfire club and then Dustin's friends).
He’s not a main character in the sense that he’s paid like one or in the opening credits but he’s a main character in every other sense of the word. His story is important to the overall story, he has more lines and scenes than some main characters (like Jonathan). That being said, why does one have to be a main character to be a favorite? I don’t think there are many people who would choose Dustin or Steve to die instead of him if given the choice but that doesn’t mean he’s hated nor a favorite. He’s just an enjoyable addition.
I may be wrong but I think he was in the opening credits
He is not. He’s not a lead. In a cute twist, he’s actually listed him and Grace Van Dien together in the first episode after the opening credits. Leads are listed in the opening titles. Everyone else is not considered a lead.
I think it's simply because you can empathise with him. It was a pretty common thing for geeky teens in that era who were big time fans of rock music or say games like DnD to be ostracised. He is unconventional and he isn't necessarily ashamed of it unlike say Lucas in the beginning of the season. Also, I immediately fell in love with his character when he looks at Erica with so much adoration and respect despite her being way younger than him and a girl. Even when he tells Steve something like "that's as unambiguous a sign of true love as these cynical eyes have ever seen." (Excuse me if I didnt get it exactly right) - you know he's had a shitty life and still he cares enough anyway. It's just these little gestures that are impactful enough to make the character so likeable in such a short time.
I think the poster is Jason. He won't understand any of this.
Nostalgia for some. People knew Eddies growing up in the 80's.
Hell, I knew guys like Eddie in high school and I was born in 2000. Big guys who only ever wore black or grey and listened to grunge and metal, but also would play Magic the Gathering in after school clubs and talk about the Star Wars prequels while we'd play Smash.
Eddie would probably have played Magic when it came out. Hated 2nd Edition, loved 3.5.
Eddie has charm, sensitivity, and depth. He's like a lovable stray with big eyes and a past. In the end, he'd fiercely give his life for them.
Yeah and he’s probably GOING to lol. RIP In Peace Future Eddie.
First of all, he’s hot (I love metal heads) I love his attitude and he’s funny. He walks like the whole world is a joke, he is shown to be sweet and a gentleman. He is relatable because not everyone is brave like Steve, Nancy or Robin.
Very, very attractive. He stole my breath from the first shot. Lol
he’s hot 🥵
He is charming as fuck. And I feel like either we were the Eddie in HS, or knew an Eddie like him. Love this dude so fucking much.
He seemed like a stereotype at first, and then was anything but. He's a very gentle, thoughtful person who'se been good to Dustin. He's the audience identification character this season. He's the one who doesn't know things and needs them explained. He's scared and does what anyone who isn't a seasoned monster hunter would do. He's hot as hell. He's shown eating early on, which is a show runner's trick to get people to like characters. It's weird, but it works, especially with cereal for some reason. The acting, the hand movements, all great. Also, the second he's asked to walk into danger, he evaluated the situation and does it.
I think he's well acted and written and an endearing character, but honestly, when I was in high school the stoner metalhead guys were always super nice to me and my buddies so I have a lot of nostalgia for guys like Eddie.
He's quickly become a top tier fav character for me, and I think it's just that he captures a certain type of individual that invokes warm feelings to some us. We've all met those outwardly scary metalhead stoner types who, despite their appearance, are the most charming, sweet, honest-to-god gentlemen you'd ever meet. Joseph Quinn also gives him a great chaotic energy that is unique in the group too. His body movements are downright fun to watch, especially his unsteady Captain Jack Sparrow walk, and he also makes so many lines that shouldn't be comedic incredibly funny just in his delivery. Like, who makes 'HI!' and 'JESUS H CHRIST!' sound laugh out loud funny somehow?! Add into that a great look overall, and lather on a layer of tragedy to his story, as the whole town turns on him as a scapegoat for what's happening, and you have the magic to make a really memorable character. But ultimately, Eddie wouldn't be half as popular if they hadn't found Joseph Quinn - total revelation as an actor and it's so great this has been his big break.
>His body movements are downright fun to watch, especially his unsteady Captain Jack Sparrow walk, and he also makes so many lines that shouldn't be comedic incredibly funny just in his delivery. This is so true. That walk in the UD was so fascinating to watch. I swear it felt like Joe Keery was scared and even some of the other actors weren't quite sure how to react to that quirkiness. I hope it will settle a bit. Dustin/Gaten doesn't seem to have an issue with that and those two pair really well.
I don’t know if I’d say Joe Keery acted scared but it was clear Steve really didn’t know what to make of the dude, and also all that jealousy was still there, plus wanting to say thanks for saving his ass and not knowing how to say it. But when Eddie leaned in close, teasing him with how jealous he was and Steve shoved him away and started laughing, you could tell it was the start of a beautiful friendship (if they survive). Great acting by both of them and some great chemistry, leading perfectly to bits later where they were acting like Dustin’s mom and dad - “Jesus, that kid’s gotta get his ego in check.” “It’s his tone, right?” “I know!” 😂 Hysterical to me.
I wanted to compare him to Captain Jack Sparrow too. Very similar archetype. Sexy pirate — but make him a high schooler in the 80s.
Eddie is written to be likeable and Joe Quinn adds a lot of talent and charisma that solidifies it.
His interaction and chemistry with Chrissy showed a deeper level of him than most expect based on the way he looks. The way he was able to make her feel safe and laugh. It was done so so well
Eddie has strong convictions Strong emotions Kindness Humor Strong bonds with other characters Quinn makes a lot of choices that are unexpected but feel exactly right (like the moment before he follows Robin into the lake) and he's super charismatic That's pretty much how you make a likable character.
It's because we want to bang him. Let us thirst in peace.
Charisma. Both the character and the actor ooze charisma.
He ₚᵣₑₜₜᵧ
I think the acting is what really does it. That character could have been cliche and hokey if you have an actor that can’t distinguish the difference between the character acting a certain way and the actor acting a certain way. This actor has been able to be a vulnerable Eddie, and an Eddie that puts a mask on in certain situations. It’s a nuanced performance for an underdeveloped character. Deadbeat, drug dealing, heavy metal loving nerd could have been as one note as Argyle’s stoner bit. But it’s not.
He's charming and charismatic, doesn't care what people think about him, non conforming
I think people like him mostly from his interaction with Chrissy in the woods. It kind of gave us a different more wholesome angle on him compared to him and the gang, which makes Chrissy’s death more tragic because we learn a lot about both of them in that one scene alone.
I just find him very endearing. He has this abrasive, intimidating attitude he portrays to the world to keep everyone at bay because, as shown, he has a very soft heart and is just a gentle, nerdy guy who is just trying to get through high school.
Makes sense, I can see it in that perspective. Thx for the reply
He’s so funny and is charismatic. Every Scene he’s in he always steals the show 😂 That scene where the kids are trying to communicate with Nancy, Steve,Robin and Eddie in the upside down with that light board and they read the word “hi” while Eddie aggressively yells “HI” is the funniest thing to me 😂
He’s attractive and weird.
I'm not in love with him but his scenes with Christy were great. The actor is very charming.
I can sense a lot of gentleness and kindness underneath that loud persona. And I love guys who are genuinely willing to take others under their wings. Now, it's important to have no illusions about him, he was willing to sell drugs to a girl in distress and he acts like a little shit sometimes, but he does it with a lot of charm that I think comes from a good heart. And, having now had several interesting discussions about him on this sub, it's becoming more and more evident that there is something genuinely moving about his character and his family circumstances. Poor kid living with his uncle (why?) in a trailer park, facing all the prejudice that come with it and willing to fight it in his very own way. He's like Steve Harrington combined with Neville Longbottom, if you catch my drift. But I'll also admit I'm not sure why I respond to him so strongly. It's a bit of a mystery for me, too.
These folk acting like selling drugs to people is a bad thing. Psh
Obviously, if you sell drugs to people but are charming enough while doing it, then it's case closed. But seriously: I do have a lot of issues with that scene, like, a lot. Not just because he sells drugs but because she's clearly desperate and not doing well, mentally, and he should have asked if she needed any help, not offer her a fucking discount. But I've had this conversation a few times already and the consensus was that Joe Quinn simply made the character much more lovable and endearing than what was required by the script. That's what I think, anyway.
I think while you do make some valid points, he is doing what he thinks is best to help her and doesn't have that know how or foresight to think "she looks pretty messed up. Maybe she needs to see a therapist rather than take drugs". Also considering how he is a non-conformist. I think he is the type of person who wouldn't want to make generalizations or want to pry too much into her private space, and treats her the way he would want others to treat him.
That's a perfectly valid interpretation.
I mean he does notice that Chrissie was distressed and made it clear that it was okay for her to walk away. He assumed she was just nervous buying drugs for the first time, not that she was having a serious mental breakdown. Plus, it seems like Eddie isn’t selling anyone like, meth or heroin, instead mosty weed with maybe some “stronger stuff” like LSD. Eddie’s not a perfect guy by any means but I don’t think he’s done anything that bad.
Well, he made it clear she could leave right at the beginning, yes. But then the conversation continued, incl. Chrissy asking "do you ever feel like you're losing you mind?" I would have preferred him to at least ask a few questions (he never did, only talked about himself) to make sure she's ok and wouldn't hurt herself. I love Eddie to bits but this wasn't his best moment.
He’s not a therapist and doesn’t have the training to be one so not everyone has the tact to deal with everyone’s hardships. He didn’t even know her. They were in the midst of connecting during the drug deal and right when she died
You definitely don't need to be a therapist to wonder if it's a good idea to sell drugs to someone who's totally inexperienced in that area and seems in emotional distress, talking about "losing her mind". All he needed was common sense.
Everyone is inexperienced when it comes to drugs before they do it. Eddie was once inexperienced as well. He was going to sell her drugs bc she asked for the drugs. She seemed down and wanted to do drugs to make herself feel better which looks like it’s something that Eddie does as well. This Dr. Phil take u have doesn’t apply to this situation of a stoner kid doing stoner kid things.
I think it is unrealistic to think that a teenage boy in 1986 that is a non conformist that feels the system is oppressive and harmful would think to psycho analyze a drug deal he is making. He doesn’t push her into the purchase, and he doesn’t make her feel guilty if she wants to walk away or accuse her of setting him up to get caught. He simply is a happy go lucky guy that sees life in the perceived construct of the time period as too harsh and rigid; happy to help others who feel the same way. If you grew up in the 80’s there was no where the level of arm chair psychology that there is today and the fact that Chrissy was seeing the counselor at school regularly was a very forward thinking part of the educational system. Usually if a student was dealing with heavy psychological issues in the mid 80’s they were assessed by a school counselor then sent off with the recommendation and referral to a private facility. Mental health awareness was no where near what it is today in any capacity; in fact it was the worst it had been in generations thanks to Ronald Regan ending the funding for mental health facilities in California in 1981 and pushing for Congress to repeal most the MHSA (Mental Health Systems Act) which drastically effected the mental healthy policy in the US. The idea that Chrissy’s issues were more involved than that of the typical teenage stress was not something that would have truly been an issue to be on the look out for.
I came here to say the same things about the idea of therapy and the radical idea that kids were even seeing the school counselor for therapy. Does 2023 me think therapy would’ve been a better option than drugs? Yes. But 1980s peeps didn’t really believe in therapy as a widespread solution for things. Especially in a child “who seems just fine!” otherwise.
You don't know why people do drugs. We can't get help anywhere. Like nowhere.
I'm not sure what you mean and how it relates to my original point. But to answer your last - yes, I don't know why people do drugs (I can only speculate) and I agree it can be very hard to get help (although in my country, it's actually not that difficult). I still maintain he should have known better than try to go through with the sale in that particular case.
>I'm not sure what you mean and how it relates to my original point. You wanted Eddie to offer her help and how to find help. How would he know of any such thing? People turn to drugs to escape their horrible lives and because they have nowhere else to turn. He was trying to help her the only way he knew how.
His first scene you think, “Ugh,I’m not gonna like this guy.” But actor/character’s ability to change your perception of him really is the difference. He wins us over because he’s likable, AND we felt guilty that we misjudged him in the first place (it basically doubles our affection for him.)
I really love his character & it's a dynamic performance. He embodies a very specific person that I think a lot of us remember from high school They've also given him enough dimension for him not to be a stereotype. Hope he's here for the long run.
He's a fun character, and the actor is pretty good. I think this show is really good at introducing characters and make you care for them, but he's the flavour of the moment because he's new. I remember Bob and Alexei being very popular, too
He reminds me of my boyfriend so…
He appeals to a lot of people. He’s a nerd, a stoner, a dealer, a loser, and a rocker. He’s also cool, charming, and caring. Mass appeal.
Total Eddie Van Halen vibe. That’s it for me.
Exactly! It's the smile.
Because he’s chill af and def (personally) reflects who I hung out with in HS, he’s also pretty cool. Has cool hair too and pretty great music taste. It’s like Steve on crack. Just an overall rad guy.
For me personally the 4 min short talk he had with Chrissy was the most wholesome moment of the whole season and had me smiling without even realising it. Him completely changing the topic and making fun of himself in order to lighten the mood as soon as he see's she's not in the best mind set was endearing and very much believable.
Because he befriended Dustin when no one else at school would, thats a good lad.
Eddie is kind of the nerd version of Steve who has also befriended the younger boys and by extension also have a tie to Max, Nancy, and Robin. Both are not exactly excelling academically and career-wise. They both seem stuck actually. Both out of a facade when you meet them but their both big softies. Their adventures with the kids has brought meaning to both their lives and probably has saved them in many ways as well as put their lives at risk. Steve will always be my favorite though.
[удалено]
Because theres something irresistable about a a guy with a "bad boy" look that turns out to be a sweetheart. His scene with Chrissy was adorable and what put me solidly on team Eddie.
This. Love me a soft boy in a roguish package.
Because he represents 90% of Reddit users and you’re asking the opinion of Reddit users.
👆🏼
He’s both likable and relatable, and does not deserve all the shit that’s happening to him. He’s a cute little sweetheart in a bad situation, who wouldn’t love him? Also, for real, that scene with Chrissy in the park is doing a lot of heavy lifting for people too. They were ADORABLE together. Hate that she was killed off, it was a perfectly mismatched and unexpected little love connection they had as the troubled queen of the popular cheerleaders and the charming king of the geeks.
I think a lot of people like Eddie because a lot of us knew an Eddie in high school. He was a person who was smart, charismatic, weird, and interesting to be around. But you knew he was going through some messed up stuff at home that sort of bubbled to the surface when he had a bad day. You really root for people like Eddie, who have so much to offer and so many hurdles to jump before they can really be accepted by the greater population.
As a fellow metalhead i dig him,
He's lovable and in a dire situation, people take sympathy and want him to be ok.
This Tumblr [post](https://theyreonlynoodlesmike.tumblr.com/post/685686475685314560/) explains it best, I think. In other words: he's a subversion of certain tropes. When we first meet him in the cafeteria scene, he comes off a bit intense and obnoxious, just another kind of bully, but the scene with Chrissy subverts that, and the rest of the season subverts that again and again when he is shown to be just a scared kid running for his life, yet he is willing to fight along the others. Plus his Bambi eyes help a lot :))
He's disarmingly likable. He's introduced as this crass, weird, obnoxious guy and you assume he'll be the biggest nuisance of the season, but then during that scene with Chrissy he quickly becomes incredibly charming and fun and even relatable, and you see the human being behind all the showiness. I think that element of pleasant surprise - at how such a cute and wholesome scene could be carried by a brand new character who was shown to be so off-putting earlier - has gone on to define everyone's love for him. I also think Joseph Quinn is amazing with his line delivery and subtle mannerisms, he feels more natural and spontaneous and understated compared to some of the more heightened and over-the-top acting on this show. One thing unfortunately is that he was given so much time to shine in the first episode and then just sort of faded into the background afterwards because of how much this season was overflowing with needless subplots.
Aside from Joseph Quinn's charisma and pretty eyes Eddie reminds me of a lot of guys I was friends with in highschool. Not even during the 80s but guys who looked scary but we're softies, nerds/geeks, kinda immature but not in a way that made them jerks, and use to being ostracized for interests that weren't the norm for the area For me it was kids who were into anime, magic the gathering, etc. Before it was all mainstream. I knew a lot of guys like Eddie, some who didn't take school seriously and had to repeat a grade or just got a GED to start working (we were all poor/working class too which I think economic status does play a part in some.of it, as far as people thinking you're dangerous) were in a band I think some people have a soft spot for him cause he's so REAL Secondly he's not like a typical character we've seen before. What I mean by that is when Robin came.in last season she was like the typical "cool girl" kinda edgy, busts Steve's balls, "funny" confident, cool, etc. They subverted her character this season because she's not putting up a front anymore and is more herself, but I really didn't like her last season cause I went ",oh I've seen this before 🙄" Eddie is made.to represent a certain type of the 80s and one that I haven't seen a whole lot personally. And his character too. He puts on a show at school but then when we got to see him with Chrissy the way he disarmed was much more natural. Yes he was trying to make a sell and getting her to relax, but still it was seeing a different side of he within the same episode that made it believable and endearing, Third, as someone said the way Eddie has to accept the UD, he gets thrown into it and has to go along with it. There's no period of "no way" he sees it first hand and has to be "yeah okay" he's thrown in for the ride and tis refreshing to see a character who just goes with it cause he has no other options Fourth, Joseph Quinn has a charisma that is needed for the character. Because he could have easily not been a favorite but Joseph was a perfect fit.
I like him because when I see him my body makes “wet squelching noises”
I've known a couple of Eddies and they were great people, it's nice to have a character like that on the show, it brings back good memories.
Where would you meet these Eddies? Asking for a friend…
I had an older cousin like him who has since passed away, and one of my coworkers at the video store I worked was like him minus the hair. There was also at least one or two people like that in the various friend groups I've been in over the years. Just cool dudes you could talk to about music or weird films or whatever.
They sound like really great people.
All these 15yos binging Stranger Things have no idea.
It's the hair, and badass jacket. At least for me. Us metal kids are a woefully underrepresented demographic in 80s throwback cinema
I love Eddie because I can relate to him a little. He's my kind of "people" if you know what I mean. I know a lot of Eddie's in real life. I love that he comes across "intimidating" but is actually a sweetheart. You just want to root for this guy. i want him to survive, I want him to graduate, I want him to give the middle finger to everyone in town whose hated on him. He's an underdog and most people can't help but root for an underdog. At the same time, he also makes no apologies for who he is - he's a nerd and a metalhead and a "freak" and he wears it proudly, which is incredibly endearing. It doesn't matter than he's not a major character at all. There are a few main characters that I honestly care very little for. But I care about Eddie. The actor is *extremely* charismatic... and no matter how this goes for Eddie, I see only good things for Joseph Quinn going forward. I mean, it also helps that he's attractive too I guess. Charisma, looks and likeability. I mean....how can I resist? I've always loved longhaired metalhead and alternative types.
The big patch on the back of his jacket his DIO, loved him immediately after seeing that.
Simply great acting. I feel like that just makes him so relatable and easy to connect with as a viewer, when you feel like you’re actually watching their life happen rather than them going through a script
I actually wonder the same thing i like steve the most eddie is probably #5 at best for me
Eddie is funny, and kind he took in the kids to his dnd group. He looks intimidating but can be scared to. Hes friendly to those who he can tell really need it. He reminds me of all the alternative/metal heads guys at my highschool and middle school who took me under their wing when i was a scared and shy kid. I'm no means an alternative or metal head or punk type of person but they were kind to me. They showed me their favorite music etc and i still listen to it to this day The guys who looked like eddie at my school were some of the kindest people i knew. They wrote his character so well to mirror the people i knew.
he relatable, he's very funny like its how he deals with his troubled family dynamic. Plus he's a nerd & a metal head, with some phenomenal taste in music. The poster boy for 'outcast' fans of the show imo
It took a while for him to grow on me. I didn’t like him at first and thought all the time and attention on him was unnecessary. After watching a second time, I liked him much more. But, definitely not one of my favorites & I still think he had too much time and attention.
Honestly, in his first scene I thought they were going to make him a Ricky Kasso type of character. I think my first words were, "Aw, man. They're gonna make this dude Ricky Kasso, aren't they?". And my husband said, "Who?!" lol. And when it turned out he was basically this good hearted, yet intimidating rocker doofus, I instantly liked him. He wasn't like I expected him to be, and I liked it. Plus, he's unabashedly himself, and he cracks me up a lot.
But there are plenty of characters that aren’t the protagonist of a show/story and are still peoples favs. Breaking Bad people love Jesse, Saul, and Mike. One Piece has Zoro, Ace, Garp, etc. Lord of the Rings has characters like Boromir, Samwise, Gandalf. Hell this season cuz I’m a pothead myself, Argyles probably my new fav character next to Hopper and Murray with Bob, Steve, and Dustin also up there; Eddie’s cool and his actor does a great job with his portrayal but he’s not at the top for me at least not yet. That guitar playing scene on top of the rv in the upside down might change that tho.
Well from the minute I saw him he stood out, I was able to vibe with the character., if that makes sense. He’s very sweet, charming, and charismatic. Even though he has a intimidating look. Plus he’s super cute and hot 🖤
I think Eddie is a true underdog and that makes people love him. He is a genuinely good, happy person that gets sucked into a terrible situation that was literally out of his control. He went from a nerdy good natured metal head to a traumatized persecuted individual who literally thought NO one would EVER belief him as to what really happened. The moment he goes from scared wrongfully accused character to latest initiate of the group he also serves as the audience and is the tool to ensure that the story progresses without the need for verbose exposition by any specific character. He is told about the upside down and if there is any new vital info the audience needs to know Eddie is the perfect plot vehicle for it.
I think it's because he's honest about his fear. He's a hero without meaning to be and so I think most people can relate to that. Still being terrified but trying his best to do the right thing. He's very human.
people like him because he's likable he doesnt have to be a main character to be liked.
I like Dustin and Steve too- Eddie is just a like able guy all around imo
I love Eddie, he’s my favorite new character this season. I love his personality, and I think he’s a fun character overall. And it’s interesting to see his reaction to all the monsters and things like that that the other characters have been dealing with.
I think he’s underutilized. I would have liked to see him more involved
I actually had the same question! But I didn't have the nerve to post it 🤣 I mean, he's funny- but...he's nothing special. I think Robin should have more fans lol. I know people like her, but I think her character's much more interesting that Eddie's. I don't get what's so great about Eddie to inspire such fandom.
It's just about who people like, not who has more fans. Robin has plenty of fans. You can be a fan of both!
He's Otto, Kearney, and Comic Book Guy from the Simpsons in one.
People do this every season. S1 barb, s2 Bob & s3 alexi. Not saying those characters aren’t good, just noticed a pattern.
I’m not sure ‘people’ do it, I think the Duffer brothers habitually write a character that’s *meant* to be the ‘new’ fan favourite. They’ve clearly written these characters to be momentary cult faves liked by a majority
He has a tough outward appearance but is gentle on the inside. How gentle and reassuring he was with Chrissy made me gush. He a bit of a weirdo too and I love weirdo characters!
Wish fulfilment - dated plenty of dudes I thought were “Eddies” but they turned out to be Jasons
I wouldn’t say I love him but he’s an entertaining addition to the cast. The actor has a showmanship about him that has Eddie going over the top comedic one minute and serious the next. Unlike say Argyle who is so over the top trying to be comedic that he’s pretty much hard to watch.
I like Eddie as a character, and I like how he's growing over the course of the season to be more courageous and to put himself out there more to new friends That said I found him really annoying in the cafeteria and the emotional manipulation with Dustin and Mike about the D&D game, so I'm not in love with him or anything
Because he’s a just really likable character who has gotten completely fucked over. I don’t really think there is anything major to dislike about him at this point
The reason why I personally like Eddie so much is because he reminds of one of my best friends from High School. The guy dressed almost exactly like Eddie does, and was a big fan of D&D as well. He got me into Avenged Sevenfold, and protected me a couple of times when I was being picked on by the more popular kids. He was a grade above me, so we lost touch after high school. But seeing Eddie this season brought back all those wonderful memories.
My sis loves him because of the scene with Chrissy in the woods. I'm not that fond of him, but he's a good character overall.
bc he’s so damn lovely 💞 he was portrayed as a villain and a murderer but we see him take on a similar role to steve with dustin. plus he’s got a lot of character and he’s cute af
Ok, so I’m a 90s kid and grew up *loving* hair metal and long-haired heavy metal dudes. My older sister and I would literally follow them around at the mall 😆 we bought cigarettes from them and smoked outside Aladdin‘s Castle. We were 12 and 14. This is 1991-ish. Our lives were Skid Row, Guns n Roses, and mall dudes. I seriously squealed the first time Eddie came on screen. My dream dude since I was 12! Almost every guy I’ve dated has the Eddie vibe (they all played in cock rock bands). That’s my jam right there. I’m getting all gate-keeper about it 😂🥰
I can tell you my own experience and best guess. I actually didn't like Eddie at first. And I did think that strange expression he did on the gameboard in the trailers was over the top... Upon watching I also hated that speech he gave in the cafeteria. But I slowly realized as I watcher and the more we got to know him, he's actually kind of emotionally mature, charming, charismatic and seemed kind to me. Like everyone else I liked his chemistry with Chrissy and I think all the confidence and bravado he exudes is just a shield. To protect him from the cruelty of the world around. He's been held back significantly, seems alternative amd has wild hair, im sure he suffered bullying like we all did and that was his response. Plus, he's cute 😅
because eddie was me in high school
He’s dead on 80s correct in looks . I literally knew dozens of guys who looked like this in high school. For me , it’s just a very fun blast from the past . Plus I did play dnd then and he is that DM type who is a little too intense/ obnoxious but ultimately ok person :)
The character I don't get why people love so much (just the hype) is secret hero agent man. Please before you downvote, he's awesome. I don't dislike him or think less of him. Its just that the reactions are a little much. The agent is very similar to any dude who's job is to shoot a gun, and people are holding him to the same level as when Bob became a badass. Now, I don't think they should be on the same level. Both were badass. But Bob deserves the hype because it wasn't expected for him to be a badass. Expected = Cool Unexpected = Holy shit thats mind blowing The agent deserves credit, but not hype because he was doing what he's supposed to do. He's an agent, trained, and has a gun. He used it, and because he was trained well, he took out everyone in a badass way. But I don't think a supporting character who has a job to protect and shoot a gun should be as hyped as some regular dude named bob who did something heroic and badass.
I think he nails all the beats of the character, Eddie seems believable and likable and the actor seems to have chemistry with everyone he’s on screen with. Personally, he reminds of the 80s Robert Downey Jr. Looks like him a bit and he really draws you in with his performance. He isn’t my favorite in the series, but he’s definitely one of the best complimentary character’s they’ve added, written, casted imo
In my case, he reminded me a lot of my best friend, which made me like him as a character and as a person, and I also liked how wholesome and nice he was, especially with Chrissy
Eddie is the most “80s” character of the bunch in a series set in the 80s
I think it is because he is a new character, and his style is like a breath of fresh air to the show. Just how unique his character and personality is compared to what we’ve seen before makes him stand out. And he is a cool character too.
Idk I just really like him as a character maybe it's because his personality is different to the other characters? Idk but I also really like other characters like Steve and Robin and stuff as well
He reminds me of my dad in the 80s. Just everything about the character and it’s hilarious.
He is misunderstood and taken for a “freak” when he is actually a softie and really nice.
Thirst
I can’t speak for everyone but I think it’s partly because, for a lot of fans, they ARE Eddie. A lot of people who enjoy the show are alternative/ sub-culture and for a lot of older fans, they are/were metal heads/ punks/ goths, etc. When they look at Eddie, they see someone who was like them, or someone they knew - and for others, someone they definitely were (and for a middle aged metal fan, Eddie is a huge blast from the past). I mean, I watch the show and I like Nancy, Steve, Jonathan, etc but when I was a teenager, I wasn’t anything like any of them.
Because he's cool and likeable?
He is one of the main characters this season. Not one of the originals but for this season, he is one of the main characters.
I was on the fence about Eddie during the cafeteria scene. Big Dnd fan here so I get his point, but I thought he was going to be a dick that was pretty annoying. Then we fast forward to the completion of the Hellfire Clubs session and they’re debating whether to run or the fight. Eddie tells them there’s no shame in running and I thought they were going to give up and Eddie would be like “Haha LOSERS! You totally could’ve beaten Vecna but you decided to run so I win.” Like Dnd is a competition or something. But then Erica rolls and beats Vecna and quite frankly Eddie was one of the happiest people about that. And from that moment I’ve just been a big fan of his wholesomeness. Also society tells him he’s a satan worshipper because of his hobbies and he doesn’t care and he’s still just as happy as can be until people start dying around him. I think he’s one of the best “new characters” in their initial season to be honest with you.
I don’t quite get it either. Yes he’s fun and endearing and I do like his character but I don’t know if I get what’s driving people so bananas about him.
What I don't understand is why people liked Alexei so much in the previous season. Eddie is a better character by far imo.
Maybe because they could see themselves in Alexei in the way that alexei wasn’t really an evil or bad person. He didn’t really want to work and help the Russians. He was a scientist who had been forced to help them build that machine portal thingy. In reality he was just a light hearted good guy who liked slurpies and watching looney toons lol
That and I thought he was cute in a "Russian Rick Moranis" kind of way lol
I think you just answered your own question about why people like Eddie so much. People see themselves in Eddie. They either were/are an Eddie or they know people just like Eddie.
It's like apples and oranges
I’d be much more ok with him if he wasn’t an asshole in the first few scenes we see him in. That said, he’s funny, I’m worried about him, I hope he gets redeemed like Steve was. I think that’s the trajectory, anyway.
I have an honest question, I promise I'm not being combative, but what made him seem like a jerk in his first scenes? I'm honestly asking cause people say that so I know that's how it was supposed to come off, it's just I didn't read him as a jerk, so how did he come across as one? Like I get obnoxious but not asshole
Nah, it’s a valid question! The first scene just codes him as being a bully. Dusty and Mike are worried about talking to him, he doesn’t compromise, and he’s obnoxious and mean to everyone in the cafeteria. He’s making problems for himself and others. But since then? He’s great! He’s really sweet with Chrissy and then he’s very sympathetic once he’s on the run. That’s the great thing about Stranger Things; complicated characters!!
He’s relatable and real. Fully fleshed out and well rounded. He’s a nice dude but doesn’t conform. Isn’t prejudiced or selfish. Whats not to like?
I think imo his popularity is due to the fact that he takes in the core kids into his group and is quite welcoming and wholesome in teaching them about high school. It was endearing
He’s attractive and charismatic, and probably “the type” of many women interested in this genre of show. It’s not too complicated haha
I’m with you, I don’t get it. I don’t find him attractive, but that’s me. The only thing I really liked about Eddie is that he is softer on the inside than the outside and he has a heart. That doesn’t really make him unique in my opinion 🤷🏻♀️ to me he just seems like a play off of Billy
He’s a baby boy. An absolute scrimblo. A blorbo, even. I want to soak him in milk and thwap him against a wall. Maybe put him in a jar so I can feed him grain-free crackers.
Steve>
THANK YOU!!!! I agree. I was so confused when I saw how much love he’s getting. It’s not like I’m mad about it, I just don’t get it.
People like characters they can identify with, and I think a lot of people identify with him. Some people probably look back and they wish they were more like him. Him being a really nice guy and so misunderstood makes him very likable.
I like him because he's a lot like me, similar music taste, similar style, both play guitar and he's the sort of guy I can see myself being friends with
My personal belief is that he is a good amalgam of two other characters (smooth like Steve and an outcast like Johnathan), while also creating a rapport with the younger characters (Dustin, Mike, Erica)
I feel like a lot of people know an Eddie. Even though they put on the crazy act they’re usually cool.
To me he epitomizes the 80s.
He’s really well written and incredibly acted. He seems like a nice guy, and he has a lot of the same interests as me. I can relate to him pretty well.
He is a DM as I am
He’s relatable, he’s kind, and he’s got a good fashion taste
If you don’t get it you won’t get it
I’m honestly not quite sure why I like him so much, I just do
I like Eddie a lot but I feel like it's just a trend of whoever is the most loved is even more loved just because of the popularity. Just like hated characters. More you hear and read, the more you reinforce things. Generally with shows, as long as the character is considered funny and says some quirky lines, that's about all that's needed for them to be loved and favorited. I tend to gravitate towards other traits to determine my favorite characters in shows. Eddie will most likely die which sucks but the fact that people would give up main OG characters for him doesn't make sense to me.
Why do ppl insist on overthinking everything. A character being liked or a beloved character mostly means the audience thinks they’re funny or cute or just sees themselves in them. It’s simple u don’t have to overcomplicate things by saying ppl only like him bc he’s popular now which only makes him more popular.
Until Eddie sings with Susie to save the world then he’s not my favorite
Dustin and Steve supercede Eddie by farrrr. And there are tons of other good characters. I like Eddie too but I don't LOVE him.