The audition footage of Jake Connelly, who portrays Derek Turnbow in the upcoming season of *Stranger Things*, has been released by Netflix Tudum. This clip showcases Connelly’s introduction and offers insight into the character’s development, revealing that he is the younger brother of Tina Turnbow, played by Caroline Elle Abrams. Often referred to as “Dipshit Derek” due to his confrontational behavior, Connelly’s character is expected to take on a more nuanced role in the series.
Connelly’s audition tape was shared on December 15, 2025, via X (formerly known as Twitter). The clip opens with Connelly stating, “Hi, my name is Jake Connelly. I’m 4 feet and 11 inches tall.” His self-introduction sets the stage for a performance that impressed the show’s creators.
Character Expansion and Creator Insights
Matt Duffer, co-creator of *Stranger Things*, discussed the audition and the decision to expand Connelly’s role throughout the season. He noted, “We knew he would be a perfect Derek, but he was so charming and hilarious to us that we started to gradually increase the size of his role throughout the season.” This statement highlights the strong connection Connelly made with the production team, suggesting that his performance will resonate with audiences.
In the audition, Connelly humorously asserts that he is not “Dipshit Derek” but rather “Delightful Derek.” This playful twist hints at the character’s potential growth in *Stranger Things*, promising viewers an engaging experience.
Behind the Scenes with Jake Connelly
In a conversation with Netflix Tudum, Connelly reflected on his excitement about the series, particularly noting a pivotal moment from the script. He expressed his surprise upon reading the first three episodes, mentioning a shocking plot development involving Holly. “I seriously gasped at the first three episodes because I learned that Holly was taken and what happens after that,” he stated. Connelly further teased an upcoming scene in which he gets to express a strong reaction, saying, “I learned I got to flip off someone and yell something that I won’t spoil, but it’s pretty amazing.”
This role marks a significant step in Connelly’s career, as it represents his major acting debut, following only a local Chicago furniture commercial. With *Stranger Things* being a widely recognized series, the anticipation surrounding his performance is palpable.
The audition footage not only showcases Connelly’s talent but also builds excitement for the upcoming season, where viewers can expect to see a fresh take on the character. As *Stranger Things* continues to evolve, new characters like Derek Turnbow promise to add depth and intrigue to the beloved series.
