As Joe Keery’s new film Cold Storage premieres in theaters, fans of Stranger Things continue to grapple with the show’s ending and the persistence of the so-called Joe Keery Conformity Gate theory. Despite speculation and excitement around a secret final episode, Keery has directly addressed and dismissed the theory while displaying amusement at its popularity among viewers.
Cold Storage, a comedic sci-fi thriller co-written by David Koepp and directed by Jonny Campbell, stars Keery alongside Georgina Campbell and Liam Neeson. The story follows two self-storage workers, Travis and Naomi, who confront a dangerous parasitic fungus that threatens global safety after escaping government containment. With Cold Storage receiving positive reviews, including a 79% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the spotlight is currently on Keery’s new role amid lingering discussions about his Stranger Things character, Steve Harrington, and the show’s unresolved fan theories.
Joe Keery Responds to the Secret Episode Rumors
In a recent interview with MovieWeb, Keery and Georgina Campbell touched on the persistent Conformity Gate theory that some fans believed could explain the unsatisfying conclusion to Stranger Things. When asked if he delved into the speculation, Keery straightforwardly stated he knew no such episode existed. Campbell chimed in to confirm she followed the theory herself, while Keery repeated,
“Unless… there’s no episode. I knew there was no episode.”
Keery expressed both surprise and admiration for the theory’s creator, acknowledging the viral nature of the rumor:
“How did this happen? It’s great, though. Whoever started is a genius, right?”
This exchange underscores the fascination the idea generated among viewers, who even revisited Netflix to search for a hidden installment on the night of the finale.
Why the Conformity Gate Theory Took Hold
The emergence and endurance of the #ConformityGate theory reflect a deeper emotional response to the conclusion of Stranger Things, which aired its final episode on New Year’s Eve 2025. The series, known for its dramatic storylines and intense battles, left many fans feeling dissatisfied, prompting them to search for alternative explanations or secret content that might provide closure. This reaction is comparable to past disappointments seen with other major shows such as Lost and Game of Thrones.
As a decade-long saga with a dedicated fanbase, Stranger Things’ open-ended elements encouraged speculation, yet the theory’s traction reveals how some viewers struggled to accept the finale’s direction. The persistent hope for additional content is understandable given the emotional investment in the characters and their fates.
Potential Closure Through Upcoming Spin-Off Series
While the Conformity Gate theory seems unlikely to be proven true, fans may find some consolation in the upcoming Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, a spin-off set between Seasons 2 and 3 of the original series. Although this series has not been confirmed as official canon, it introduces new characters including Nikki Baxter, and offers more stories in the Stranger Things universe. This extension could provide fans with fresh narratives that address some of the feelings left unresolved by the main show’s finale.
Ultimately, this spin-off may serve as a way for fans to move beyond the controversy and reconcile with the end of Stranger Things, allowing the theory to fade as audiences adjust to the series’ closure.
Inside Cold Storage and Its Leading Roles
Cold Storage features Joe Keery as Travis “Teacake” Meacham, one of two self-storage workers tasked with containing the fungal threat before it spreads uncontrollably. Alongside him, Georgina Campbell plays Naomi Williams, his co-worker and partner in confronting this unusual crisis. The film’s blend of science fiction and comedy situates Keery in a role that parallels the unexpected challenges his Stranger Things character encounters.
The film’s creative team, including director Jonny Campbell and writer David Koepp, have crafted a narrative that merges humor and thriller elements, offering audiences a fresh experience from Keery beyond the world of Hawkins, Indiana. With Liam Neeson also starring, Cold Storage has garnered attention for its compelling premise and unique genre combination.
