'Stranger Things' season 2 spoilers: Barb's death to take its toll on Nancy during first episodes

“Stranger Things” was one of 2016’s surprise hits. Audiences fell in love with the series because of its story, production and its characters -- although one beloved character has been confirmed not to make it to the upcoming second season.

During Jimmy Fallon’s Golden Globes opening number, “Stranger Things” star Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin and Finn Wolfhard exclaimed that Barb -- portrayed by actress Sharon Purser -- was still alive. Fans of the franchise were delighted at the news as the death of Barb had become a sensitive topic with the show’s following.

However, Brown quickly told Entertainment Weekly that the character does not actually return alive in the second season. “No,” she said. “She’s not alive!” But while the 12-year-old actress confirmed that Purser will not return to reprise her character, “Stranger Things” cast member David Harbour may have disclosed exciting details during the Fan2Sea Comic Con Cruise earlier this month.

Harbour briefly discussed the character of Nancy, and how there will be justice for Barb. The actor confirmed yet again that the beloved character will not be physically returning to “Stranger Things,” but that Nancy’s eyes will be opened to the reality that hardly anyone cares for her friend.

“The question and feelings that Nancy has that no one ever cares about her friend Barb are very much present in the beginning of the season,” he said. So while audiences may not see Purser back on the small screen, her memory or lack thereof is likely to be a theme within the earlier episodes of “Stranger Things” season 2.

The exact release date of the upcoming season is still unknown, and the cast and crew are remaining tight-lipped about the same. However, “Stranger Things” season 2 has been confirmed to return to Netflix International this year.

Watch the season 2 trailer of "Stranger Things."