In this in-depth interview, Calista opens up about keeping her role a secret for nearly two years, joining one of the biggest shows in TV history at its emotional end, and navigating Mary’s surprising character arc. She shares behind-the-scenes stories from set, working with the Duffer Brothers, Frank Darabont, and Shawn Levy, and filming the powerful final Dungeons & Dragons basement scene that left fans emotional.
Calista also dives into Mary’s darker turn in Volume 2, fan reactions to that shocking moment, learning from the veteran cast, and how stepping into the 1980s shaped her performance. Plus, she teases what she hopes fans understand about Mary when they rewatch the final season—and what’s next for her career.
If you’re a Stranger Things fan, this is a must-watch interview.
⭐ Interview Highlights
• “Keeping this secret for almost two years was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.”
• Joining Stranger Things in its final season felt “magical, surreal, and bittersweet”
• Mary started as Holly’s best friend—but everything changes in Volume 2
• The Dungeons & Dragons basement scene was largely improvised and incredibly emotional
• Working opposite Jamie Campbell Bower as Vecna was “terrifying… and amazing”
• Mary isn’t evil—fans may see her very differently on a rewatch
• Calista reveals what she kept from set and how the show changed her career
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