Caleb McLaughlin has expanded his career significantly in 2024 and 2025, moving beyond his Stranger Things fame through innovative projects like the Afrofuturist horror audio drama “Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi” and major film roles including “The Deliverance” and “The Book of Clarence.”
As the final season of Stranger Things approaches in 2025, McLaughlin has strategically positioned himself as a versatile performer. He has demonstrated remarkable range across film, voice acting, music, and advocacy, while also leveraging a massive online following with more than 12 million Instagram followers.
Key Takeaways
- McLaughlin stars as D’Shaun Wallace in the 2025 Afrofuturist horror audio drama “Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi,” showcasing his foray into innovative audio storytelling and voice acting.
- His recent film projects include “The Deliverance” (2024), directed by Lee Daniels, “The Book of Clarence” (2023), and “Shooting Stars” (2023), examples of his expanding presence beyond Netflix origins.
- The actor has introduced his music career with singles like “Neighborhood” (2021) and “Soul Travel” (2022), drawing influence from iconic artists such as Stevie Wonder and Earth, Wind & Fire.
- McLaughlin actively uses his social media platform—boasting 12.2 million followers—to promote campaigns like #EmbraceYourFace and #BeYourBiggestFan, aimed at fostering diversity and self-love in youth.
- His Broadway roots as Young Simba in “The Lion King” provided him foundational skills in live performance, dance, and opera that continue to enrich his diverse projects today.
Stranger Things Star Ventures into Afrofuturist Horror with New Audio Drama
Caleb McLaughlin has stepped into exciting new territory with his latest project, expanding his artistic range beyond live-action performances into the immersive space of audio storytelling. In 2025, McLaughlin took on the voice acting role of D’Shaun Wallace in “Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi,” an innovative Afrofuturist horror series that pushes boundaries in both genre and representation.
Breaking New Ground in Horror Storytelling
The audio drama presents a compelling narrative that follows an African-American family’s transformative journey to Africa, where McLaughlin’s character D’Shaun becomes the catalyst for supernatural terror. D’Shaun’s actions inadvertently awaken an ancient evil spirit, setting in motion events that blend traditional horror elements with deep cultural exploration. This project represents a significant departure from McLaughlin’s previous work, showcasing his versatility as a performer while addressing important themes of family dynamics and cultural identity.
“Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi” stands out for its unique fusion of Afrofuturism and horror, creating fresh representation in a genre that has historically lacked diverse voices and perspectives. The series demonstrates how contemporary storytelling can honor ancestral traditions while exploring futuristic concepts, offering listeners an experience that’s both thrilling and culturally significant.
McLaughlin’s involvement in this project reflects his continued commitment to meaningful storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences. Voice acting requires different skills than on-screen performance, demanding actors to convey emotion and character development solely through vocal expression. This challenge allows McLaughlin to demonstrate his range as a performer while contributing to groundbreaking content.
The timing of this project couldn’t be better, as fans continue calling for McLaughlin to take on other significant roles that showcase his talent. Audio drama represents a growing medium that’s attracting top-tier talent, and McLaughlin’s participation helps elevate the format while exploring themes that matter to contemporary audiences.
This venture into Afrofuturist horror positions McLaughlin at the forefront of innovative storytelling that combines entertainment with cultural significance. The project’s exploration of family relationships, cultural identity, and supernatural elements creates a rich narrative landscape that benefits from McLaughlin’s nuanced performance as D’Shaun Wallace.
Latest Film Projects Keep the Lucas Sinclair Actor Busy Beyond Netflix
Caleb McLaughlin has expanded his career significantly beyond his breakout role in Stranger Things, taking on diverse projects that showcase his range as an actor. His recent filmography demonstrates a strategic move into feature films while maintaining his connection to both mainstream and independent cinema.
Recent Major Film Releases
McLaughlin’s collaboration with acclaimed director Lee Daniels in The Deliverance (2024) marked a significant milestone in his career. Playing Nathaniel “Nate” Jackson in this supernatural thriller, he stepped into more mature territory that contrasts sharply with his younger television persona. The film allowed him to explore dramatic depths while working alongside established talent in the horror-thriller genre.
His portrayal of Dirty Zeke in Jeymes Samuel’s The Book of Clarence (2023) further solidified his commitment to challenging roles. This biblical epic film provided McLaughlin with an opportunity to work within a completely different narrative framework, demonstrating his versatility across various storytelling styles and time periods.
The actor also took on the role of Dru Joyce III in Shooting Stars (2023), a Peacock production that chronicles LeBron James’s early basketball career. This biographical sports drama added another dimension to McLaughlin’s growing portfolio, allowing him to explore real-life characters and sports narratives.
Upcoming Projects and Future Ventures
McLaughlin’s future projects indicate his continued evolution as an actor willing to explore different mediums and genres. He’s been cast as Will Harris in the upcoming animated film GOAT (2026), marking his entry into voice acting work that will reach audiences in 2026.
Additionally, his involvement in the announced project Demon House (with no confirmed release date) suggests his interest in horror and supernatural themes continues beyond The Deliverance. Fans have also called for McLaughlin to play Miles Morales in future Spider-Man adaptations, indicating his growing recognition for action and superhero roles.
This diverse filmography showcases McLaughlin’s strategic approach to building a career that extends well beyond his Netflix origins, positioning him as a serious dramatic actor capable of handling complex characters across multiple genres and production scales.
Final Season of Stranger Things Approaches as McLaughlin’s Career Expands
McLaughlin continues to captivate audiences as Lucas Sinclair in Netflix’s supernatural drama Stranger Things, the role that catapulted him to international stardom. The series will conclude with its fifth and final season in 2025, marking the end of an era for the beloved show that began in 2016. His portrayal of the loyal friend and skilled marksman has earned him critical acclaim, including an Emmy Award for his compelling performance throughout the series’ run.
Beyond Hawkins: Diverse Acting Portfolio
Outside of the Upside Down, McLaughlin has demonstrated his range through various film and television projects. His lead role as Coltrane “Cole” in Netflix’s Concrete Cowboy (2020) showcased his dramatic abilities alongside acclaimed actor Idris Elba. The film explored urban horseback riding culture in Philadelphia, allowing McLaughlin to take on a more mature, grounded character that differed significantly from his supernatural adventures in Stranger Things.
His television credits extend beyond his breakout series, including appearances in The New Edition Story and voice work in animated projects like Ultra City Smiths, Summer Camp Island, and The Boys Presents: Diabolical. These roles highlight his versatility as a performer, transitioning seamlessly between live-action drama and voice acting. Some fans have even suggested that McLaughlin could play Miles Morales in future Spider-Man productions, recognizing his ability to portray complex young characters.
Looking Forward: Post-Stranger Things Trajectory
As Stranger Things prepares for its final bow, McLaughlin stands at a pivotal moment in his career. His experience spanning nearly a decade on one of Netflix’s most successful original series has positioned him as a seasoned actor despite his young age. The diversity of his recent projects suggests a strategic approach to building a lasting career beyond his most famous role. Industry observers note that his combination of dramatic range, proven audience appeal, and professional maturity makes him an attractive choice for both independent films and major studio productions moving forward.
Music Career Showcases Multi-Talented Performer’s Range
McLaughlin’s artistic journey extends far beyond the small screen, demonstrating his versatility as a multi-faceted entertainer. His musical endeavors began gaining serious momentum with the release of his debut single “Neighborhood” in 2021, marking his official entry into the music industry. This inaugural track showcased his smooth vocal abilities and set the foundation for his developing sound.
Building on that initial success, McLaughlin followed up with “Soul Travel” in 2022, further establishing his musical identity. His artistic influences run deep, drawing inspiration from legendary performers like Stevie Wonder and Earth, Wind & Fire. These classic artists have clearly shaped his approach to creating music that blends contemporary appeal with timeless soul elements.
Foundation Built on Broadway Excellence
McLaughlin’s musical and performance abilities weren’t developed overnight. His extensive training encompasses multiple disciplines that contribute to his current artistic range:
- Ballet training that provides grace and body control for his performances
- Jazz dance skills that enhance his stage presence and rhythm
- Tap dancing expertise that showcases his precision and timing
- Opera training that strengthens his vocal range and breath control
These diverse skills found their perfect showcase when McLaughlin landed the coveted role of Young Simba in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway. His performance in this iconic production became legendary for its longevity – he held the Young Simba role until 2014, earning the distinction of being the longest-running actor to play Young Simba in the production’s history.
The Broadway experience provided McLaughlin with invaluable live performance skills that now enhance his music career. His ability to command a stage, connect with audiences, and deliver emotionally resonant performances stems directly from those formative years in professional theater. The discipline required for eight shows a week taught him the work ethic and professionalism that carries through all his current projects.
McLaughlin’s dance background particularly enriches his musical performances, allowing him to incorporate movement and visual storytelling that elevates his songs beyond simple audio experiences. His understanding of rhythm and timing from tap dancing translates seamlessly into his musical arrangements, while his ballet training contributes to the fluidity of his stage presence.
The combination of his classical training with contemporary music sensibilities creates a unique artistic profile. McLaughlin doesn’t simply sing his songs – he performs them with the full range of skills developed through years of rigorous artistic education. This comprehensive approach to entertainment reflects the influence of his musical heroes, who were known for their complete artistry rather than single-dimensional talent.
His opera training proves particularly valuable in developing the vocal strength and control necessary for recording and live performance. This classical foundation allows him to tackle complex musical arrangements while maintaining the emotional authenticity that connects with listeners. The breath control and projection techniques learned through opera study enhance his ability to deliver powerful performances across different venues and settings.
McLaughlin’s music career represents the natural evolution of an artist who has been honing his craft since childhood. His songs benefit from the depth of experience gained through professional theater, while his performance style reflects the influence of soul and R&B legends who understood entertainment as a complete art form. Fans have been particularly excited about his potential for taking on roles that combine his acting and musical talents, with some advocating for him to play Miles Morales in future Spider-Man projects.
The artistic versatility that McLaughlin displays through his music career demonstrates his commitment to being more than a single-genre performer. His foundation in classical training, combined with contemporary influences and professional theater experience, positions him as an artist capable of sustained growth and evolution in the entertainment industry.
Social Media Influence Drives Advocacy for Diversity and Self-acceptance
McLaughlin leverages his massive social media presence to champion causes close to his heart. With 12.2 million Instagram followers, he commands significant influence that extends far beyond entertainment. His platform becomes a powerful tool for promoting positive change and meaningful conversations about diversity in Hollywood.
Campaigns That Inspire Self-Worth and Unity
The actor spearheads several impactful social media campaigns that resonate with his diverse fanbase. His initiatives focus on building confidence and fostering acceptance:
- #EmbraceYourFace encourages followers to celebrate their natural features and resist societal pressure to conform
- #BeYourBiggestFan promotes self-advocacy and personal empowerment among young people
- Anti-bullying content that addresses real experiences many fans face daily
- Mental health awareness posts that normalize seeking support and professional help
McLaughlin’s campaigns consistently emphasize authenticity over perfection. He shares personal stories about overcoming self-doubt and facing adversity, creating genuine connections with his audience.
Addressing Industry Challenges and Future Opportunities
The Stranger Things star doesn’t shy away from discussing difficult topics affecting actors of color. He’s spoken candidly about experiencing racism within the entertainment industry, using these experiences to educate others and advocate for systemic change. His openness about these challenges helps younger actors prepare for similar obstacles while pushing for industry-wide improvements.
McLaughlin’s advocacy work has generated excitement about his potential casting in future projects. Spider-Man fans call for Caleb McLaughlin to play the live-action Miles Morales, recognizing how his commitment to representation aligns perfectly with the character’s significance in Marvel’s multiverse. This grassroots support demonstrates how his social media presence translates into tangible career opportunities.
His content strategy balances entertainment with education, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses while addressing serious social issues. McLaughlin frequently collaborates with other advocates and influencers to amplify important messages about inclusion and acceptance. This approach has established him as more than just an actor—he’s become a trusted voice for positive change among Generation Z and younger millennials.
Through consistent messaging and authentic engagement, McLaughlin proves that celebrity influence can drive meaningful social progress. His commitment to diversity and self-acceptance continues shaping conversations about representation in media while inspiring countless followers to embrace their own uniqueness.
From Broadway Child Star to Multifaceted Entertainment Professional
Born October 13, 2001, in Carmel, New York, Caleb McLaughlin’s journey into entertainment began long before he became a household name. His early years were shaped by intensive arts training at Happy Feet Dance School and later at the prestigious Harlem School of the Arts under the guidance of Aubrey Lynch. This foundation in dance and performance arts would prove instrumental in launching his career.
Early Career and Broadway Success
McLaughlin’s professional career started with small but significant television roles that showcased his natural talent. He appeared in episodes of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Unforgettable, and Shades of Blue, gaining valuable on-set experience that would serve him well in future projects. However, it was his stage work that truly demonstrated his versatility as a performer.
His breakthrough role came when he was cast as Young Simba in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway. This demanding role required him to master complex choreography, vocal performance, and dramatic acting – skills that highlighted his comprehensive training and natural ability. The Broadway experience provided him with a strong foundation in live performance and helped him develop the confidence that would later translate to his screen work.
Television Breakthrough and Recognition
McLaughlin’s transition from stage to screen reached its pinnacle when he landed the role of Lucas Sinclair in Netflix’s Stranger Things. This breakthrough role transformed him from a promising child actor into a recognized talent in the entertainment industry. The show’s massive success brought him international recognition and opened doors to numerous opportunities beyond acting.
His performance in Stranger Things earned him critical acclaim and several award nominations, including recognition at the Emmy Awards. The role allowed him to showcase his ability to handle both dramatic moments and lighter, comedic scenes while working alongside an ensemble cast of young actors who have all grown up together on screen.
McLaughlin’s evolution from child star to multifaceted entertainment professional extends beyond traditional acting. He has demonstrated his musical talents through various projects and has become increasingly involved in advocacy work, using his platform to address important social issues. His commitment to giving back to his community and speaking out on matters that affect young people has established him as more than just an actor.
The entertainment industry has taken notice of McLaughlin’s growth as a performer. Spider-Man fans have called for him to play the live-action Miles Morales, demonstrating the industry’s confidence in his ability to take on major roles in established franchises.
His journey from a young performer in Carmel, New York, to a recognized face in Hollywood illustrates the importance of solid training and diverse experience. The combination of his Broadway background, television success, and expanding involvement in music and advocacy work positions him as a well-rounded entertainment professional rather than simply a former child actor.
McLaughlin’s career trajectory shows how early intensive training can pay dividends throughout an actor’s development. His time at the Harlem School of the Arts provided him with skills that extend far beyond acting, including:
- Discipline
- Stage presence
- The ability to work collaboratively with other performers
These qualities have served him well as he’s transitioned between different mediums and taken on increasingly complex roles.
The recognition he’s received, including Emmy Award consideration, validates his growth as a performer while highlighting his potential for continued success in the industry. His ability to balance his acting career with music and advocacy demonstrates the kind of versatility that modern entertainment professionals need to maintain long-term relevance and impact.
Sources:
Rolling Out: “Caleb McLaughlin unleashes terrifying Afrofuturist horror”
Business Insider: “The stars of ‘Stranger Things,’ ranked by success”
Wikipedia: “Caleb McLaughlin”
Movie Insider: “Caleb McLaughlin Film Credits”
Gotham Artists: “Hire Caleb McLaughlin to Speak”
Rotten Tomatoes: “Caleb McLaughlin Movies & TV Shows List”
IMDb: “Caleb McLaughlin”
