The rumor about poor Steve’s death is tired, so I’m shifting the death flag to someone else. Kicking off the analysis with a bang is Robin Buckley.

Robin in Stranger Things is clearly not a secondary character, but she doesn’t quite sit at the main table with the six kids either. Given the Duffer Brothers’ tradition of avoiding the demise of core characters and instead targeting those we’ve grown deeply fond of, Robin becomes the number one candidate to continue the list of beloved, emotionally impactful characters who will cook (following Bob in Season 2, Billy in Season 3, and Eddie in Season 4). But why Robin?

First, the Duffer Brothers advised us to rewatch four specific episodes from previous seasons to prepare for Season 5, including the Season 2 episode “The Spy.” In Season 2, Will was the Mind Flayer’s spy; his connection to the hive mind indirectly led to Bob’s death.

Returning to Season 5, Robin is emerging as a guide and supporter for Will himself, mirroring the fate of the dearly departed Bob. The situation this season is far worse, and it will likely be absolutely necessary for someone to sacrifice themselves to create a meaningful impact on the plot, to motivate the main characters.

And what could be more perfect than for a character’s date with their girlfriend (Vickie) to be eternally missed because she gave her life to protect the one she loves? This is the most logical moment for Robin’s inspirational speeches to everyone, her heartfelt advice to Will, or her beautiful memories with Vickie, to pay off as her legacy. Robin’s “legacy” will be a massive driving force for Will’s group to push back the antagonists, making the entity who scorns human emotions, like Vecna, regret his actions.

With a significantly expanded role this season and the new moniker “Rockin’ Robin,” it’s highly likely Steve’s colleague will follow in Eddie’s footsteps from the previous season with a send-off no less spectacular (no one this cool survives long enough in this show). I predict the final scene will involve Will and Dustin at a cemetery, each lighting a candle for a separate grave.

Oh, and there’s also that one guy in the show who’s hesitating to confess his feelings, perhaps…?