In an exclusive with GU, Stranger Things star Priah Ferguson opens up about the bittersweet emotions of filming the final episodes, finishing high school, and why walking away from Hawkins felt a lot like graduation day.
ESSENCE GU: You recently graduated from high school congrats! What was it like balancing regular public school life while filming one of the biggest shows on TV?
PRIAH FERGUSON: Honestly, it was pretty easy for me to balance both. As a young kid, I had to practice effective communication and learn how to be proactive. I wanted my parents to trust that I could handle school and work, and I didn’t want my teachers to assume I had an ego or didn’t value my education. Acting is something I love, but school has always been a priority. So it wasn’t hard—it was just something I had to practice at a young age.
GU: Did public school help keep you grounded, or was that more your support system?
FERGUSON: Definitely my support system. My little sister will humble me real quick if I’m getting out of line! Public school helped too. I got to live a normal life around kids who’d known me forever and didn’t make a big deal about what I did. But my support system kept me grounded the most.
GU: Let’s talk Stranger Things. It’s the last chapter—the final season. How are you feeling?
FERGUSON: It’s definitely a tender moment. The show has been part of my life for a decade, so I’m more familiar with it being there than not. I’m excited to move on, but it’s bittersweet. I always looked forward to the next season and what Erica would get to do. Knowing that feeling won’t come again for this series it hits. But I’m ready for the next thing too.
GU: Did the energy on set feel different this season, since everyone knew it was the end?
FERGUSON: Toward the last days, yes. Going in, everyone just wanted to do great work one last time. We played games, had our little moments, but when people started wrapping their characters, that’s when it felt real. The last day was emotional. I think I cried more at home knowing that I won’t ever play Erica Sinclair again. It kind of felt like grief in a way, you’re wrapping up something that has been a part of you for so long.
GU: By Season 3, we really got to see more of Erica and watch her become part of the main friend group. How did it feel stepping into that space and becoming a fan favorite?
FERGUSON: I wasn’t expecting it at all. I didn’t know what fans would think of Erica—I just wanted to do great work. The Duffers writing her into a bigger role was such an honor. I loved tapping into her quick wit, but also learning more about who she is. That helped me learn more about myself, too. Yes, Erica makes smart remarks or says what people are thinking; she’s also a polymath. She can use her brains to get herself out of a tough situation. She also discovered that she was a nerd, and I think that’s beautiful for young girls to see that.
GU: Did you keep anything from set this season?
FERGUSON: I honestly didn’t! They were giving out things, but my mind was somewhere else. The Duffers did gift me a framed art piece of Erica.
GU: You’ve said you want roles that show more of your range. What would be a dream role for you?
FERGUSON: I can’t pinpoint a genre or specific character. I’m a huge fan of great writing. I want to tell stories that speak to Gen Z in a nuanced way. I’m also big on honoring my youth. I’m not rushing into anything just because I’m grown now. I like the longevity of youth. I trust that what’s meant for me will be for me.
GU: When you’re not acting, what brings you joy?
FERGUSON: A lot, honestly, but cooking! I’m actually a great cook. Last night I made homemade mashed potatoes, garlic butter steak bites, broccoli with Parmesan cheese sauce, and corn. But what I’m known for is pineapple bowls—I cut and gut the pineapple myself and make hibachi-style shrimp, chicken, or steak inside. My family tears it up every time.
GU: Looking back at everything Stranger Things has been for you, what’s a piece of wisdom you’re taking into your next chapter?
FERGUSON: My mom always reminds me that timing is everything. Things fall into place the way they need to in order to prepare you for what’s next. I never rush anything. If I hear “no,” I believe it’s protection—maybe it just wasn’t for me. I don’t ever want to be in spaces that aren’t for me. This role was for me, and it prepared me for whatever comes next.
GU: What advice do you have for young Black actors navigating Hollywood?
FERGUSON: What’s for your journey is for your journey. Even though I was the one main Black character in a mostly white space, I never felt like I wasn’t supposed to be there. I’ve always been confident knowing that I was able to be in any space, whether I’m the only one or not. Don’t make your path about comparison or competition, and surround yourself with a strong support system.
GU: What’s next for you?
FERGUSON: I have a podcast series coming out from the creators of The Umbrella Academy. It follows a young girl who discovers her grandfather’s hard drive. I’m also in the upcoming Basquiat film, Samo Lives starring Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Jeffrey Wright. I’m really excited for people to see both projects.
The fifth and final season of Stranger Things is now streaming on Netflix.