What music and television to stream: A New Years Eve tradition and a Stranger Things sendoff

As the year comes to a close, streaming platforms are rolling out fewer fresh options, making it the perfect opportunity to revisit some of the year's standout films, series, and music. The Associated Press has compiled a thorough Year in Review guide featuring the best releases of 2025. For those looking to usher in the New Year in style, a highlight this week is 'Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,' streaming on ABC.com. This annual tradition is packed with star-studded performances from artists like Chappell Roan, 50 Cent, Diana Ross, Chance the Rapper, and many others. This event promises to provide a vibrant soundtrack to your celebrations. On the same night, Netflix bids farewell to the iconic series 'Stranger Things.' The long-awaited series finale, dropping at 8 p.m. Eastern, will feature the much-anticipated eighth episode of Season 5. Fans will witness the final showdown in Hawkins, Indiana, as beloved characters portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, and Sadie Sink confront the formidable villain Vecna. Speculation is rife about which characters, if any, might meet their end in this climactic conclusion, making it a highly anticipated event for viewers. With the episode also being screened in numerous theaters, it stands to be one of Netflix's most-watched nights ever, potentially breaking viewing records. This New Year’s Eve is set to be unforgettable, blending remarkable performances with the closing chapter of a beloved series.