Cara Buono Discusses Karen Wheeler’s Transformation in ‘Stranger Things’

The character of Karen Wheeler, portrayed by Cara Buono, is stepping into the spotlight in the upcoming season of Stranger Things. Known primarily for her supportive yet often peripheral role as the mother of Nancy, Mike, and Holly, Karen undergoes a significant transformation in Season Five, which premieres on December 25, 2023.

In the first part of the new season, Karen faces a dire situation when one of Vecna’s minions invades her home, targeting her youngest daughter. This dramatic turn of events shifts Karen from a background figure to a key player in the ongoing battle against supernatural threats in the town of Hawkins. The home, well-known for its iconic basement where friends first bonded over Dungeons & Dragons, becomes a battleground.

Buono, in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, discussed the character’s evolution and the challenges she faces. “Suddenly Karen’s thrust into the unbelievable,” Buono stated. “This whole time, she’s been in denial and drinking her wine.” Her character has often been depicted as the quintessential ’80s mom, but the new season forces her to confront harsh realities.

A notable aspect of Karen’s character is her coping mechanism; she often resorts to drinking wine. Buono elaborated on this, noting that Karen favors white wine to avoid spills on her living room’s white rug. “I always said she’s kind of a high-functioning closet alcoholic,” Buono added, explaining her approach to portraying Karen’s denial and oblivion.

As the season progresses, Hawkins faces military lockdown, creating a challenging environment for its residents. Buono reveals that Karen finds ways to acquire her wine and other necessary items through a black market. “Karen knows where to get the wine,” she shared, highlighting her resourcefulness. The character’s journey also includes moments of levity, such as “smoking cigarettes in the garage” while waiting for supplies.

The physical appearance of Karen reflects the show’s current circumstances. Buono noted that in Season Five, Karen’s hair appears less polished due to quarantine conditions and limited access to hair products. “It gets a little sad looking,” she admitted, acknowledging the toll that the season’s events take on her character.

As anticipation builds for the return of Stranger Things, fans can look forward to a more dynamic and resilient Karen Wheeler. With episodes set to release on December 25 and December 31, viewers are eager to see how Karen’s newfound strength plays out in the face of horror. The evolution of her character not only adds depth to the storyline but also illustrates the resilience of motherhood in challenging times.