'Stranger Things' Actress Weighs in on Theory About Eleven's Powers [SPOILERS]

This article includes spoilers for Season 3 of 'Stranger Things.'

The conclusion of Stranger Things Season 3 offered a number of shocking developments from the franchise--namely the death of the Mind Flayer’s possessed hosts and the loss of Eleven’s powers. Though the events seemed to be unrelated, one fan theory suggests that they may, in fact, be connected--and series actress Francesca Reale has weighed in.

Prior to the season’s epic climax, the Mind Flayer is seen luring in and consuming the bodies of its hosts in order to accumulate mass for its monstrous body--seemingly killing characters including Heather and her parents. Soon after, Eleven strains herself so much that she seems to lose her powers.  Reale, who played Heather, told Elite Daily that she was fairly certain that Heather was gone, but also cited a popular theory to the contrary.

"There’s a theory that Eleven lost her powers because all of the people who died in the Mind Flayer are going to absorb them as they live in the Upside Down," she said. "Like, if she lost her powers, it’s because all these people are living in the Upside Down and they’re absorbing her powers to survive down there."

She added, however, that she was not wholly sold on the theory. “That sounds awesome, that it’s their energy source and they’re taking it away from her," Reale continued. “But I also do think there’s a chance that it’s just overuse. I mean, her powers and her abilities are such a major part for a good chunk of the season this year."

At this point, it’s hard to say what will occur in the next season of Stranger Things and which fan theories, if any, will prove correct. Regardless, we’re still going to keep an eye out for interesting ideas--and for any hints from the cast and creators.