Netflix Tudum has unveiled the audition footage of Jake Connelly, who portrays Derek Turnbow in the highly anticipated Stranger Things Season 5. Connelly is introduced as the younger brother of Tina Turnbow, played by Caroline Elle Abrams. The character of Derek is often referred to as “Dipshit Derek,” a nickname stemming from his quick temper and tendency to bully peers.
The audition clip, released on December 15, 2025, shows Connelly introducing himself, stating, “Hi, my name is Jake Connelly. I’m 4 feet and 11 inches tall.” His self-awareness and humor set the tone for the audition, as he goes on to declare that he is not “Dipshit Derek” but rather “Delightful Derek” today.
Character Expansion and Creative Vision
In the same clip, Matt Duffer, co-creator of the series, explains why Connelly was a perfect choice for the role. Duffer notes that Connelly’s impressive audition led to a decision to expand the character’s presence throughout the season. He remarked, “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.”
The audition also features a sequence that parallels a moment from the series involving Connelly and Winona Ryder’s character, Joyce. This creative connection highlights the show’s commitment to character development and engaging storytelling.
Connelly’s Experience on Set
In a conversation with Netflix Tudum, Connelly shared insights about his experience on the set of Stranger Things. He revealed a standout moment from the script that left him in awe. “I seriously gasped at the first three episodes because I learned that Holly was taken and what happens after that,” he recounted. He also expressed excitement about a particular scene where he gets to express himself in a dramatic way, although he refrained from disclosing any spoilers.
For Connelly, this role marks a significant milestone in his acting career, as he has primarily appeared in a local Chicago furniture commercial prior to this breakout opportunity. As he steps into the spotlight, Connelly’s journey reflects the potential for fresh talent to emerge in a beloved franchise.
The release of Connelly’s audition tape not only showcases his talent but also builds anticipation for the upcoming season of Stranger Things, set to continue captivating audiences worldwide.
