The release of Stranger Things: Season 4 in 2022 took the world by storm. Breaking Netflix viewership records, the darker and more supernatural slasher-inspired storyline captivated audiences. Among the many highlights of the season was the introduction of a new character – Eddie Munson.
Brought to life by the talented Joseph Quinn, Eddie Munson quickly became a fan favorite. This rebel with a cause faced adversity but ultimately played an instrumental role in the main crew’s victory. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Eddie Munson so popular.
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5. Authentic Style & Iconic Shoes
Eddie Munson’s outfit screams ’80s metal fan. From torn black jeans to scuffed Reeboks and a black handkerchief, every element of his attire exudes authenticity. But what shoes does Eddie wear in Stranger Things? His favorite pair is Reebok’s white EX-O-FIT Hi men’s sneakers. You can easily find them on Amazon.
It’s not just the overall look that impresses, but also the small details. Eddie’s denim overwear features patches and pins of legendary bands like Megadeth, Iron Maiden, W.A.S.P., and Judas Priest. The enormous back patch pays tribute to Dio and their iconic album, The Last in Line. With a Leviathan Cross patch hinting at his story, Eddie’s attention to detail is commendable.
4. The Iconic Mullet
Eddie Munson’s hairstyle is nothing short of legendary. In the ’80s, your haircut was a symbol of glamour. Despite being more into heavy metal than hair metal, Eddie rocks a mullet that rivals Steve Harrington’s famous hairstyle. The volume and length of his locks add to his rebellious persona.
Interestingly, Joseph Quinn wears a wig to portray Eddie Munson. The perfect look required multiple wig tests, adjusting the length and color to fit his face. It took the crew quite some time to attach the wig at first, but they eventually streamlined the process. The results are definitely worth the investment.
3. Inspired by Real Stories
Eddie Munson resonates with audiences because of his honesty and vulnerability. The character is loosely based on the real-life experiences of Damien Echols. Damien, growing up in a conservative town, was wrongfully convicted due to a “satanic panic” gripping the community. Similarly, Eddie faces unjust treatment based on appearances and conjecture.
The creators of Stranger Things aimed to shed light on the “satanic panic” problem of the ’80s, highlighting stories like Damien Echols’. Damien’s eventual release from death row and proving his innocence in 2010 brought some justice to his life.
2. A Relatable Misfit
Eddie Munson is far from a perfect role model. He skips classes, sells drugs, and rebukes those around him. However, his upbringing, living circumstances, and constant rejection by society make him relatable. His soft side shines through, appealing to the underdog in all of us. Eddie speaks directly to misunderstood metal rebels who simply want to enjoy some Dungeons & Dragons. Despite his flaws, he acts selflessly to protect those he loves.
1. Shredding Metallica Like a Pro
One of Eddie Munson’s most unforgettable moments in Stranger Things: Season 4 is when he unleashes a guitar solo to fend off the demon beasts of the Upside Down. Armed with his beloved guitar, Eddie wows us all by shredding Metallica’s classic “Master of Puppets.” What makes this scene even more impressive is that Joseph Quinn learned to play the challenging tune on an electric guitar for this pivotal moment.
This scene not only introduced Metallica to a new generation but also showcased the power of music. With the inclusion of other ’80s hits like Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill,” Stranger Things: Season 4 united rock fans with its excellent thematic music integration.
Eddie Munson’s popularity stems from his authenticity, relatability, and his ability to bring people together through music. As a breakout star of Stranger Things: Season 4, Eddie has left an indelible mark on fans worldwide.
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