Cara Buono

There is no force stronger than a mother protecting her children — and Stranger Things proves that loud and clear. Especially in season 5, we see a fiercely determined and courageous Karen Wheeler, as Hawkins faces its greatest threat yet.

Our next guest at Comic Con France knows all about that. Cara Buono portrayed Karen Wheeler in all five seasons of Stranger Things, playing the mother of Mike, Nancy, and Holly, and becoming an essential pillar of the series.

Beyond Stranger Things, Cara Buono is known for powerful performances in The Sopranos, Mad Men, The Hulk, and Supergirl. When a production is looking for a strong, layered female character, she is the one they turn to again and again.

Cara Buono will be attending both days of Comic Con France 2026, available for photos, autographs, and friendly chats with fans. She will not be offering swimming lessons, wine tastings, or dryer inspections but for Stranger Things fans, she’s an absolute must-meet.