LSU Professor Joe Chrest's Role Continues in 'Stranger Things' 5

BATON ROUGE, La. (KMDL-FM) - Season 5, Volume 1 of "Stranger Things" will hit Netflix November 26, 2025. As fans of the hit series wait with baited breath for the new season's premier, LSU School of Theatre students will once again notice a familiar face.

Did you know that the character of Ted Wheeler on the show is played by LSU Adjunct Professor of Film & Television Joe Chrest?

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LSU Professor Joe Chrest Star Of Stranger Things

Did you know that an LSU professor has been starring in "Stranger Things" on Netflix for all 5 seasons?

Yep. His name is Joe Chrest, and he plays the role of Nancy and Mike’s dad, Ted Wheeler.

Joe Chrest is a Louisiana based actor and longtime LSU theater instructor who’s become one of Hollywood’s most reliable “you know him when you see him” character actors. He’s appeared in some of the biggest films and TV series of the past decade, often playing authoritative or "Dad" roles.

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Who Is Joe Chrest?

Chrest is a film and TV actor best known for his roles in "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 & 2", "Deepwater Horizon", "21 Jump Street" and "22 Jump Street", "Stranger Things", and more.

Although originally from St. Albans, West Virginia, he’s been a major part of Louisiana’s film scene for years.

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Is Joe Chrest still a professor at LSU?

Joe Chrest currently serves as an Adjunct Professor of Film & Television. He’s not a full-time, tenured professor, but he does remain an active member of LSU's staff.

Chrest has lived and worked in Louisiana for years, long before "Stranger Things" made him a fan favorite.

Who Is Ted Wheeler?

The character of Ted Wheeler on "Stranger Things" is the father of Nancy, Mike, and Holly Wheeler, and the husband of Karen Wheeler. Ted Wheeler has become a fan favorite for his ability to basically be unaware of things happening around him, being unbothered, overly practical, and generally just confused.

Season 5, Volume 1 of "Stranger Things" will premier on Netflix November 26, 2025.