Jake Connelly has captivated audiences with his audition tape for the role of Derek Turnbow in the highly anticipated fifth season of Stranger Things. Released by Netflix Tudum on December 15, 2025, the footage showcases Connelly’s unique approach to his character, who is often humorously referred to as “Dipshit Derek” due to his impulsive behavior and tendency to bully his classmates.
The audition clip begins with Connelly introducing himself, stating, “Hi, my name is Jake Connelly. I’m 4 feet and 11 inches tall.” Following this introduction, Matt Duffer, co-creator of the series, explains why Connelly was the ideal fit for the role. Duffer noted that Connelly’s charm and comedic timing were so impressive that the writers decided to expand Derek’s character 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.”
In the audition, Connelly humorously asserts that he is not “Dipshit Derek” today, but rather “Delightful Derek.” This playful transition is followed by a sequence reminiscent of a scene with Winona Ryder‘s character, Joyce, highlighting the show’s signature blend of humor and drama.
Connelly Reflects on His Experience
In an interview with Netflix Tudum, Connelly opened up about his experience on the set of Stranger Things. He described a standout moment from the script that left him breathless. “I seriously gasped at the first three episodes because I learned that Holly was taken and what happens after that. I remember when I was reading the scripts for later in the season in my trailer; I learned I got to flip off someone and yell something that I won’t spoil, but it’s pretty amazing,” he shared.
This role marks a significant milestone for Connelly, who previously appeared in only a local Chicago furniture commercial. His performance in Stranger Things represents his major acting debut, and fans are eagerly anticipating how Derek will evolve throughout the new season.
As fans look forward to the continuation of the series, Connelly’s audition has generated considerable excitement, showcasing his potential to become a beloved character in the Stranger Things universe. With the new season set to explore fresh narratives and character developments, Connelly’s presence promises to add an intriguing dynamic to the series.