Joe Keery, known for his role as Steve Harrington in the popular Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’, recently shared insights into his ongoing connections with fellow cast members as he embarks on a new venture in theatre. The actor attended the opening night of his Broadway show, ‘Other Desert Cities’, at the Hudson Theatre in New York City on 18th October 2026, and offered a glimpse into how his relationships with former co-stars have endured beyond the show’s finale in December 2025.
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In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Keery revealed that the group chat for ‘Stranger Things’ continues to flourish even after the series concluded. When asked who among the cast is the most active in the chat, he mentioned Finn Wolfhard, who portrayed Mike Wheeler on the show. “Oh, man, maybe Finn, I guess maybe, yeah, we’re keeping in touch,” Keery remarked, highlighting the bond that has remained strong among the ensemble.
During the show’s five seasons, which spanned from July 2016 to December 2025, Keery’s portrayal of the character Steve Harrington offered fans a jock turned protector, while Wolfhard’s Mike provided emotional depth. Their chemistry was evident, and series co-creator Matt Duffer reminisced about their camaraderie, describing how Wolfhard would shadow Keery early in the show’s filming. Duffer affectionately noted, “Finn followed Joe around like a little puppy dog. It was so cute,” to which Wolfhard jokingly responded that it was the reverse later on.
Keery’s new venture on Broadway marks a significant milestone in his career. He not only shares the stage with accomplished actors such as Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Ed Harris, and Lily Rabe but also steps into the role of Trip, a television producer entangled in family drama during a holiday gathering. The revival of ‘Other Desert Cities’, directed by John Benjamin Hickey, delves into themes of family secrets and unraveling relationships.
Reflecting on his transition from television to theatre, Keery expressed how encouraging words from fellow ‘Stranger Things’ stars have influenced his decision to pursue stage acting. He specifically mentioned a conversation with Sadie Sink who urged him to explore theatre. “Yeah, Sadie did. I saw her before ‘Romeo & Juliet’ opened when I was across the pond, and she had some good words of advice,” he shared. This encouragement resonated with Keery, as he embraced the challenge and excitement of performing live.
Further strengthening his connections in the theatre scene, Keery has been in communication with Gaten Matarazzo, who recently opened in ‘Rent’. He praised Matarazzo’s performance and remarked on the joy of seeing his former co-star thrive in a different medium. “I’ve been texting Gaten as ‘Rent’ has opened, and yeah, he’s killing it over there,” he said, indicating a sense of pride in their shared experiences.
The opening night of ‘Other Desert Cities’ was a celebration not just of the play but also of Keery’s new chapter in acting. His Broadway debut alongside seasoned talents is a testament to his evolving career. With the show’s poignant themes and rich character dynamics, audiences can expect an engaging experience that will allow Keery to showcase his vast range as an actor.
As tickets for ‘Other Desert Cities’ are now available, theatre enthusiasts have the chance to see Keery and his cast mates bring to life a narrative filled with intrigue and emotional depth. As he continues to navigate his career post-‘Stranger Things’, Keery’s dedication to the craft of acting remains evident, supported by a network of talented peers who have also made the leap into theatrical performances.
As the curtain rises on this new venture, fans are eager to see how Keery brings his experience from the small screen to the grand stage of Broadway. The enduring friendships birthed on the set of ‘Stranger Things’ continue to play a significant role in his journey, and it will be exciting to watch how these connections evolve in the world of theatre.