The journey of Eleven, from a frightened test subject to a brave hero, involves many close bonds. These relationships are very important to her growth as a person. They help her understand the world, and too they shape who she becomes. So, it makes sense that people are curious about the feelings others have for her.

This article will explore the characters who have shown a special interest in Eleven. We'll look at the obvious connections, the subtle hints, and even some fan theories. We'll unpack the affections that have blossomed around her, and how these relationships have influenced the story of Stranger Things, particularly as of this writing in late May 2024.

Table of Contents

• Eleven's Character Profile
• The Obvious Connection: Mike Wheeler
  • Their Early Bond
  • Ups and Downs of Their Relationship
• The Unspoken Feelings: Will Byers
  • Subtle Hints and Fan Theories
  • Will's Journey and His Friends
• Other Potential Admirers
• Why These Crushes Matter
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Wrapping Up the Love Story

Eleven's Character Profile

Eleven, or El as her friends call her, has a unique background. She was raised in a laboratory, used for her powerful abilities. This means her understanding of normal human interactions was very limited at first. Her experiences shaped her, obviously, making her a bit different from other kids her age.

Her journey to find her identity and a true home is a central theme of the show. Along the way, she forms deep connections. These bonds are really what help her learn about friendship and love. It's a pretty remarkable transformation, you know, from a lab experiment to a cherished member of a family.

The Obvious Connection: Mike Wheeler

When thinking about who had a crush on Eleven, Mike Wheeler is, without question, the first person that comes to mind. Their bond forms very early in the series. It's a pretty foundational relationship for both characters, you know, right from the start.

Mike is the one who truly welcomes Eleven into his home. He shows her kindness and understanding when she has nowhere else to go. This initial act of compassion sets the stage for everything that follows, in a way. He sees her not just as a powerful being, but as a person who needs help and friendship.

Their Early Bond

From the moment they meet, there's a clear connection between Mike and Eleven. He gives her clothes, a place to sleep, and helps her feel safe. He defends her against his friends, even when they are unsure about her. This protective instinct is a very strong sign of his growing feelings.

Their first kiss, during the school dance, seals their early affection. It's a very sweet and innocent moment. This event really solidifies their mutual liking, and it's a memorable scene for many fans. They are, quite simply, each other's first true love, you might say.

Ups and Downs of Their Relationship

Like any young relationship, Mike and Eleven face challenges. Their connection is tested by distance, different understandings of the world, and, of course, supernatural threats. Mike's deep affection for Eleven is a constant throughout these trials, however. He worries about her, misses her, and always tries to find a way back to her.

For example, in season two, their separation is tough on both of them. Mike constantly tries to reach her on his Supercomm, showing his longing. Their reunion is emotional, too, highlighting how much they mean to each other. Even when they have disagreements, their bond usually pulls them back together. Learn more about relationships on our site.

Season three sees them navigating typical teenage relationship issues, mixed with saving the world. Mike sometimes struggles to express his feelings perfectly, which can cause misunderstandings. But his actions consistently show his devotion, like his unwavering belief in her abilities. Their love is a very strong anchor in their chaotic lives, really.

In season four, their long-distance relationship is a significant plot point. Mike's visit to California and his later speech to Eleven in the Upside Down are key moments. He reminds her of her strength and how much she is loved. This reinforces that his affection for her is deep and enduring, you know, through thick and thin.

The Unspoken Feelings: Will Byers

While Mike and Eleven's relationship is clearly romantic, there's another character whose feelings for Eleven have been a topic of much discussion: Will Byers. Will's journey in Stranger Things is complex, and his bond with his friends, particularly Mike, is central to his character. Yet, there are subtle hints that suggest a deeper affection for Eleven, too, in some respects.

Will spends much of the early seasons grappling with the Upside Down's influence. His personal struggles often take precedence over romantic interests. However, as the characters grow older, their emotional landscapes become more intricate. This allows for different kinds of feelings to emerge, or at least be interpreted by viewers, apparently.

Subtle Hints and Fan Theories

Many fans have noticed small gestures and expressions from Will that suggest he might harbor a crush on Eleven. For instance, his concern for her well-being is always very evident. He seems to observe her and Mike's relationship with a certain sadness or longing, sometimes, you know.

One notable scene often cited is in season three, during a conversation with Mike. Will expresses his frustration about Mike and Eleven always kissing and not wanting to play D&D. While this could be seen as general annoyance, some interpret his emotional reaction as stemming from unrequited feelings for Eleven. It's a moment that, arguably, speaks volumes about his inner world.

Later, in season four, Will's emotional moments often revolve around his feelings of being left behind by his friends. He talks about how things aren't the same, and how Mike is always focused on Eleven. This could be read as jealousy, not just of Mike's attention, but of his relationship with Eleven. His artistic endeavors, like the painting he makes, also hint at deeper emotions related to his friends and perhaps Eleven, in a way.

The Duffer Brothers, the show's creators, have also given some indications about Will's character. They've mentioned that Will's journey involves him coming to terms with his identity and feelings. This has led many to believe that his affection for Mike, and perhaps a wistful crush on Eleven, are part of his personal story. It's a very poignant subplot, really, for many viewers.

Will's Journey and His Friends

Will's feelings, whether for Eleven or for Mike, are deeply tied to his struggle to fit in and be understood. He often feels like an outsider, even within his own group of friends. This feeling is intensified as his friends, particularly Mike and Eleven, grow closer as a couple. He's trying to find his place, you know, in a rapidly changing world.

His artistic expression, like his painting, becomes a way for him to communicate his inner turmoil. The themes of friendship and connection are very strong in his work. It's clear that his friends are incredibly important to him, and he cherishes their bond. His desire for things to remain as they were, perhaps before the romantic pairings became so prominent, is quite palpable.

Ultimately, Will's character arc seems to explore themes of identity, acceptance, and the different forms love can take. His feelings for Eleven, if indeed a crush, are part of a larger emotional landscape that includes his deep loyalty to his friends. It's a very human struggle, actually, to navigate complex emotions while growing up.

Other Potential Admirers

While Mike and Will are the primary characters associated with having a crush on Eleven, it's worth considering if any other characters have shown fleeting interest. Generally speaking, Eleven's unique background and powers tend to make her stand out. However, her social interactions are often limited to her core group of friends.

Throughout the series, Eleven's focus is usually on surviving and protecting her friends. Her interactions with new characters are often brief or driven by plot necessities. So, romantic interests from outside her immediate circle are pretty rare. There aren't any other major characters who explicitly develop a crush on her, at least not in a way that the show highlights. It's mostly about her core group, you know.

The narrative really centers on her relationships with Mike, Hopper, and her friends. These are the bonds that truly shape her. Any other potential admiration would likely be very minor, and not central to her character development. It's pretty much a two-person race for her affections, if you consider Will's unspoken feelings.

Why These Crushes Matter

The romantic and platonic affections surrounding Eleven are more than just typical teenage drama. They are vital to the show's emotional depth and character development. These relationships ground the fantastical elements of Stranger Things in very real human experiences. They remind us that even with monsters and alternate dimensions, human connection is key.

Mike's crush on Eleven, which evolves into a deep love, provides her with a sense of belonging and family. It helps her learn about trust and intimacy. His unwavering support is a source of strength for her. This bond, quite frankly, is a central pillar of the entire series. It shows her what it means to be loved and to love back.

Will's potential crush, on the other hand, adds a layer of complexity and pathos. It explores themes of unrequited love, identity, and the pain of feeling different. His journey resonates with many viewers who have experienced similar emotions. It contributes to the show's emotional richness, arguably, making the characters feel more authentic. These feelings, whether acted upon or not, really add to the human element of the story.

These relationships also serve as emotional stakes in the overarching plot. When Eleven is in danger, the concern of those who care for her, especially Mike and Will, drives much of the narrative tension. Their personal connections fuel their desire to fight and protect Hawkins. It's a powerful motivator, you know, seeing their deep care for her.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Will have a crush on Eleven?

While the show never explicitly states Will had a crush on Eleven, many fans believe there are strong hints. His emotional reactions, particularly concerning Mike and Eleven's relationship, suggest deeper feelings. The creators have also spoken about Will's journey of self-discovery, which includes his complex emotions. It's a very debated topic among viewers, you know, with compelling arguments on both sides.

Who was Eleven's first boyfriend?

Eleven's first and primary boyfriend is Mike Wheeler. Their romantic relationship began in Season 1 and has been a central part of the series ever since. Their first kiss happened at the Snow Ball dance, a very memorable moment for fans. Their bond is very strong, too, and has endured many challenges throughout the show.

Do Mike and Eleven stay together?

As of the end of Stranger Things Season 4, Mike and Eleven are still together. Their relationship faces challenges, especially with long distance and the ongoing threats from the Upside Down. However, their love and commitment to each other remain evident. Their bond is a consistent element of the show, and they are a very beloved couple, actually, by many fans.

Wrapping Up the Love Story

The question of "Who had a crush on Eleven?" really highlights the emotional core of Stranger Things. Mike Wheeler stands out as her most significant romantic interest, their bond a beacon of hope and connection in a world full of danger. Their journey together is a testament to first love and enduring support. It's a very central part of the story, as a matter of fact.

However, the subtle and poignant hints of Will Byers' feelings add another layer of depth. His unspoken emotions contribute to the show's exploration of identity and unrequited affection. These personal stories, rather, make the characters feel incredibly real and relatable. They show that even heroes have complex emotional lives.

The relationships Eleven forms, whether romantic or platonic, are fundamental to her growth and the narrative's power. They remind us that even amidst terrifying events, human connection is what truly matters. It's pretty clear, you know, that these bonds are what make the show so compelling. To learn more about Stranger Things characters, check out our other content.