Since her explosive debut in Stranger Things Season 2, Kali, also known as Eight, has been a figure of intense debate among fans. With her formidable illusion-casting abilities and a hardened demeanor, many viewers have grappled with a central question: Is Kali truly evil, or is there more to her complex character than meets the eye?
Who is Kali (Eight)?
Introduced as a fellow test subject from Hawkins Lab, Kali possesses the power to create vivid illusions, manipulating perceptions with a terrifying efficacy. She leads a group of misfits in Chicago, all seeking revenge against those who wronged them, particularly those responsible for the horrors of Hawkins Lab. Her backstory mirrors Eleven's in many ways, but her chosen path diverges sharply, setting the stage for a compelling moral dilemma.
The Case for Kali Being 'Evil'
Kali's methods are undeniably aggressive and often skirt the line of conventional morality. Her pursuit of revenge is relentless, and she doesn't shy away from violence or intimidation. Her group operates outside the law, engaging in what some might call vigilantism, but others might label as outright criminal behavior. For instance, her plan to assassinate a former Hawkins Lab employee and her willingness to use her powers to deceive and control, including briefly manipulating Eleven, raise significant ethical flags. This unwavering focus on retribution, coupled with a 'by any means necessary' philosophy, leads many to categorize her as a darker, more antagonistic force.
The Argument for Kali as a Misunderstood 'Hero'
However, to simply label Kali as 'evil' would be to overlook the profound trauma she endured. Like Eleven, she was subjected to horrific experiments, stripped of her childhood, and exploited for her abilities. Her quest for revenge can be viewed as a deeply human, albeit extreme, response to injustice. She protects her chosen 'family' fiercely, providing a sanctuary for other outcasts. Her motivations stem from a desire for justice and closure, not inherent malice. When she pushes Eleven to embrace her powers and confront her past, it's arguably a form of empowerment, urging Eleven to stop being a victim and start fighting back. Her character reflects the dark side of heroism, born from suffering.
The Nuance of Her Influence on Eleven
One of Kali's most significant roles was her brief mentorship of Eleven. While their parting was fraught with tension, Kali undeniably helped Eleven unlock deeper aspects of her powers and encouraged her to embrace her identity as 'Eight'. This difficult, often confrontational guidance, ultimately contributed to Eleven's growth and her ability to confront the Mind Flayer in the Season 2 finale. Was her tough love a necessary evil, or simply a reflection of her own pain projecting onto Eleven?
A Complex Character, Not a Simple Villain
Ultimately, Kali is not a straightforward villain but a deeply complex character shaped by unimaginable suffering. Her actions are a direct consequence of her past, and while her methods are controversial, her underlying desire for justice resonates. She challenges viewers to consider the blurred lines between hero and villain, especially when confronting systemic oppression and profound personal betrayal. Her existence in the Stranger Things universe serves as a dark mirror to Eleven's journey, exploring how two individuals with similar origins can diverge dramatically in their responses to trauma. So, is Kali evil? The answer likely lies in the eye of the beholder. She embodies the raw, untamed aspects of power and retribution, pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable in the pursuit of justice. Whether you see her as a damaged hero, a morally ambiguous anti-hero, or a justified villain, Kali remains one of Stranger Things' most intriguing and polarizing figures, forcing us to question the true cost of survival and revenge.
— Barbara Avery: Life, Career, And Achievements
