Vecna, there is a lot of talk about the character’s makeover in the new season of Stranger Thingsand it didn’t take long for fans to notice that something has changed.
Jamie Campbell Bower has returned as the terrifying villain in the first volume of season five, and viewers were quick to point out his toned-down look, especially the slim waist.
A fan on X asked why Vecna looked so different this time, pointing to the “branches on his shoulder” and “slimmer waist”.
Jamie didn’t miss the chance to keep things light and answered with one word: “Zumba.”
After being nearly burned alive by Nancy Wheeler at the end of season four, the villain formerly known as Henry Creel is back in Hawkins with longer vines over his shoulders and head and visible marks from the injuries he sustained.
Although he is still large and imposing, his new appearance is much slimmer than before.
For Jamie, the changes are tied to Vecna’s journey and what he has endured.
Talks about the transformation in an interview with Screen Ranthe said, “Well, as we saw at the end of season four, Vecna suffered a fall and was apparently almost burned alive. My understanding of that is that the reason he looks the way he does now is a byproduct of partially that process. And also, just having spent more time, not like it was in the human world.”
Jamie continued, “He’s become more resentful and hideous within the process and part of the world he’s been thrust into.”
He also explained that it took even more work behind the scenes to step into this evolved version of the character.
“I often talk about this,” he said, adding that extra pieces were added to the suit to bring his presence to life. The makeup alone took about eight hours to complete.
Jamie teased Vecna’s return before the season dropped as well.
Back in October, he posted a clip of the character going through ups and downs with the caption: “Finally we can begin. @strangerthingstv Hi x.”
With Stranger Things Vol. 1 now streaming, fans won’t have to wait long for the rest. Vol. 2 will land on December 25th, and the finale will arrive on December 31st.
Vecna is officially back, and scarier than ever.
