Jamie Campbell Bower, known for his chilling portrayal of Vecna in Netflix's hit series Stranger Things, recently sat down with Collider's Steve Weintraub to discuss the upcoming fifth and final season. Bower delved into the intricacies of playing the show's formidable antagonist, the challenges faced during filming, and the profound impact the series has had on both him and its global fanbase. He also touched upon his involvement in other major franchises and his general outlook on his acting career.

As Stranger Things Season 5 approaches, the stakes are at an all-time high. Vecna, who successfully opened a portal in the previous season, is poised for a final showdown with the residents of Hawkins, Indiana, and the encroaching Upside Down. Bower's character, first introduced in Season 4, was revealed to be Henry Creel, a powerful young boy whose abilities were exploited by Dr. Brenner, much like Eleven. This entity is now bent on destroying the world, setting the stage for an epic conclusion involving Will Byers, Eleven, and the entire party.

Reflecting on his journey, Bower expressed immense gratitude for his career longevity in Hollywood, attributing it to a mix of talent, luck, and significant perseverance. He recalled instances where he felt his 'higher power' tested his resolve, to which he consistently responded with a strong desire to continue pursuing his craft. This dedication has allowed him to secure roles in high-profile projects, including a mysterious part in the upcoming third season of Prime Video's The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, where he describes the pervasive feeling on set as 'love.'

Preparing for the demanding role of Vecna extended far beyond the weeks leading up to filming. Bower revealed that the character's presence remained with him since the end of Season 4, constantly percolating in his mind. This continuous retention meant preparation was more about maintaining the character's essence than rediscovering it. Among the most challenging sequences was hanging in the attic during Season 4, where unexpected swaying necessitated additional tie lines, making the already uncomfortable wirework even more complex.

An unusual anecdote from his fan interactions involved receiving a wheel of cheese at a hotel, an experience he found quite unsettling and naturally declined to consume. When asked about his personal preferences, Bower shared that sushi is his favorite food and humorously recalled 'San Diego' from Anchorman as a memorable movie quote. For his character, Vecna, Bower imagined a fire salamander as an ideal pet.

Bower emphasized the emotional weight of Stranger Things and the powerful connection it fosters with its audience. He particularly cherishes hearing stories from families who gather to watch the show together, an experience that resonated with his own childhood memories of shared viewing. He acknowledged the profound emotional impact the series has on many and expressed deep thankfulness for being chosen to be a part of such a universally beloved and unifying production. Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 1 is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on November 26.