Cara Buono: Stranger Things, Playing Karen Wheeler & Fighting Demogorgons

This week, Tommy is joined by actress Cara Buono, best known for her powerful portrayal of Karen Wheeler on Netflix’s cultural phenomenon Stranger Things. With a career spanning decades across film and television Cara has become known for bringing depth, strength, and emotional nuance to every role she takes on—especially in the world of Hawkins.

She dives deep into her most unforgettable Stranger Things moments, including the iconic wine bottle scene, the physical demands of filming, and what it truly means to be part of such a beloved story. Cara also reflects on career twists that led her to the show, from losing a role to landing one that would change everything. Plus, she shares what she’s most proud of in this role, her thoughts on the show’s future, and a side of her journey she’s never talked about before.

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