‘Stranger Things’: Noah Schnapp Opens Up About the Emotional Episode 7 Moment That Changed Will Forever

Noah Schnapp is reflecting on one of the most emotional and pivotal moments in Stranger Things history — Will Byers’ powerful storyline in Episode 7, which left fans reaching for tissues around the world.

In a recent interview, the actor spoke candidly about portraying Will’s supernatural evolution, including the thrilling arc where Will appears to harness extraordinary abilities. Schnapp described the experience as “a dream for any actor,” noting that stepping into the supernatural realm allowed him a rare level of creative freedom.

“There were no rules, no guidelines, no reference for how it was supposed to look,” Schnapp explained. “Because it isn’t real, I was able to just create — using my hands, my movements, everything. It was so fun to explore something completely new for Will.”

Watching the episode back, however, was an emotional process of its own. Schnapp admitted it took several viewings before he could truly experience the story as a fan rather than an actor critiquing his own performance. “By the third watch, I was watching with my sister, and when I saw her sobbing, I started crying too. That’s when I finally felt it as a real viewer.”

Episode 7 marked a particularly significant turning point for Will, as he finally opens up to his friends and family — a moment that resonated deeply with audiences and with Schnapp himself.

“There was so much pressure,” he shared. “This storyline has been building since Season 1, Episode 1. I knew it would impact a lot of real young people who see themselves in Will. I just didn’t want to mess it up.”

Schnapp revealed that the scene required more preparation than any he had previously done on the show, featuring the longest dialogue of his career. Filmed in front of the entire cast, the moment felt almost like a press conference, adding to the emotional intensity. Yet, it also became cathartic.

“I was able to pull from my own personal journey,” he said. “And to have the cast sitting there, listening — it felt incredibly real.”

Fans also noticed the genuine reactions from Will’s friends during the scene, particularly from Millie Bobby Brown, whose emotional response felt unmistakably authentic. Schnapp later confirmed that many of the cast’s reactions were real, recalling how everyone embraced and cried together once filming wrapped.

Another standout relationship this season was Will’s bond with Robin, portrayed by Maya Hawke. Schnapp described her as an unexpected catalyst for Will’s growth. “She really brings him out of his shell. You get to see a lighter, more comfortable side of Will.”

Off-screen, Schnapp credits the Stranger Things creators, the Duffer Brothers, as real-life mentors who helped guide him through his journey on the show. “They believed in me before I even knew how to believe in myself,” he said.

As Will also comes face-to-face with Vecna for the first time, Schnapp praised Jamie Campbell Bower’s performance, calling their intense scenes together both challenging and rewarding.

Reflecting on his growth since joining the series at just 11 years old, Schnapp acknowledged how surreal it feels to now be considered one of the adults on set. “We’re not the kids anymore,” he said. “We’ve grown up with the show.”

With the finale approaching, Schnapp’s emotional connection to Will’s journey is clearer than ever — a testament to the depth, authenticity, and heart that continue to define Stranger Things.