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5 Shocking Facts About Chase Stokes' Secret Role In Stranger Things

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The question of whether Chase Stokes appeared in Stranger Things is one of Hollywood’s best-kept secrets, and as of late 2025, the definitive answer is a resounding yes—but with a twist that completely redefines his early career trajectory. The actor, now famous globally as John B. Routledge on Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks, had a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it appearance in the very first season of the Duffer Brothers’ sci-fi phenomenon. This minor role is a fascinating footnote in his journey to stardom, proving that every actor starts somewhere, no matter how small the part.

The true story, however, goes much deeper than a simple cameo. Before becoming a Pogue leader, Stokes was a struggling young actor who not only landed a small background part but also auditioned for one of the main, most iconic roles in the entire series. This is the untold chapter of how Chase Stokes almost became a completely different character in the world of Hawkins, Indiana, and the role he finally secured.

Chase Stokes: Complete Biography and Profile

James Alexander Chase Stokes, known professionally as Chase Stokes, is an American actor who rose to international fame through his lead role in the teen drama series Outer Banks.

  • Full Name: James Alexander Chase Stokes
  • Date of Birth: September 16, 1992
  • Age (as of 2025): 33
  • Place of Birth: Annapolis, Maryland, U.S.
  • Parents: Jeff Stokes and Jennifer Canning
  • Education: Graduated from Valencia College, and also attended the University of Central Florida and Seminole State College.
  • Breakout Role: John B. Routledge in Outer Banks (2020–present)
  • Notable Early Roles: Reed in Stranger Things (2016), Graham in Daytime Divas (2017), and Russell Bennett in The Beach House (2018).
  • Current Projects: Continues to star in Outer Banks and has taken on other film roles, solidifying his status as a leading man.

The Definitive Answer: Chase Stokes’ Character in Stranger Things

The short answer is yes, Chase Stokes was indeed in Stranger Things. His appearance was in Season 1, Episode 6, titled "Chapter Six: The Monster," which premiered in 2016.

He played a character named Reed, a minor, non-speaking role. Reed is seen briefly in a scene with Nancy Wheeler (Natalia Dyer) and Jonathan Byers (Charlie Heaton). The context is that Reed is a friend of Jonathan’s who is involved in a conversation at a gas station.

His screen time was minimal—so brief, in fact, that many fans of both Stranger Things and Outer Banks missed the connection entirely until years later. At the time, Stokes was a relatively unknown actor, and this small part was one of his earliest credited television appearances, a stepping stone in his career before landing the life-changing role of John B.

The role of Reed highlights the early days of many successful actors, taking any part they can to gain experience and screen credits. It’s a classic example of a now-famous face appearing in a massive franchise before their true breakout moment.

The Audition That Almost Changed Everything: Steve Harrington

The most compelling and perhaps most shocking part of Chase Stokes’ connection to Stranger Things isn’t the role he got, but the one he auditioned for. Stokes revealed that he tried out for the pivotal role of Steve Harrington, the character who evolves from a typical high school jock to a beloved "Mom" figure for the younger kids.

The role, of course, eventually went to actor Joe Keery, who has since become synonymous with the character. Keery’s performance has been lauded for its comedic timing and emotional depth, making Steve Harrington one of the most popular characters in the series.

Stokes himself has been very candid about the experience, stating that he "absolutely effed up" the audition. He even admitted that he didn’t take the audition seriously at the time, not fully grasping the massive potential of the show.

This failed audition is a powerful example of the unpredictable nature of an acting career. If Stokes had landed the role of Steve Harrington, his career path would have been drastically different, and he may never have been available to play John B. on Outer Banks. Fans often speculate about this alternate reality, but the consensus is that both Keery and Stokes ended up in the roles they were destined for.

From Hawkins to the Outer Banks: A Career Trajectory

The journey from a minor character named Reed in Stranger Things to the leading man John B. in Outer Banks is a testament to Chase Stokes’ persistence and talent.

Early Career and Other Roles

Before his Outer Banks fame, Stokes built his resume with several television appearances. These early roles include:

  • Base (2015): An early TV movie role as Ethan Terri.
  • Daytime Divas (2017): A recurring role as Graham, which gave him more on-screen experience.
  • The Beach House (2018): A TV movie where he played Russell Bennett.
  • Tell Me Your Secrets (2021): Appearing as TJ in this thriller series.

These roles, including his brief stint in Stranger Things, were crucial in preparing him for the demands of a starring role.

The Outer Banks Phenomenon

Stokes initially almost passed on the audition for Outer Banks, a decision that would have changed the landscape of teen dramas forever. Fortunately, he reconsidered and landed the role of John B. Routledge, the charismatic leader of the Pogues searching for treasure off the coast of North Carolina.

The success of Outer Banks turned Chase Stokes into a global star, leading to multiple seasons and a massive, dedicated fanbase. The show’s themes of class division, adventure, and young love resonated deeply with audiences, cementing his status as a breakout star.

In hindsight, the small role in Stranger Things and the failed Steve Harrington audition were not setbacks, but necessary steps. They led him down a path where he could secure a lead role tailored to his unique charisma and acting style, ultimately making him a household name on the very same streaming platform, Netflix, that hosts both series.

was chase stokes in stranger things
was chase stokes in stranger things

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