Fans of the smash-hit Netflix series Stranger Things have criticised the latest season for seemingly 'losing' two favourite characters.

The first instalment of the fifth and final season of the popular sci-fi programme was released earlier this week, quickly becoming the most-watched title among UK subscribers on the platform.

This comes as no surprise, given that dedicated fans have been eagerly awaiting the new episodes for three years.

Four episodes are currently available to stream, with the second part set to be released after Christmas and the grand finale landing on New Year's Day.

However, some viewers have taken issue with the series for apparently forgetting about two cherished supporting characters: Argyle and Suzie, who were last seen playing crucial roles in the plot.

Argyle was introduced as a new member of the group in the fourth season. He struck up a close friendship with Jonathan after the Byers family relocated to California and took up a job as a delivery driver for Surfer Boy Pizza, reports the Mirror.

The character is portrayed by actor and comedian Eduardo Franco, known for his roles in films such as Booksmart and Self Reliance.

Argyle quickly became an important ally to the entire group, discovering the real reason behind their move and even helping to rescue Eleven and construct a sensory deprivation tank for her to use in her battle against Vecna. He was last seen driving his friends back to Hawkins and assisting Eleven in rebuilding her home and gathering mushrooms when particles from the Upside Down began to infect Hawkins due to the opening of the gates.

Suzie Bingham, who first appeared in the third season before becoming a regular in the fourth, actually resides in Salt Lake City, Utah, a considerable 23-hour drive from Indiana.

She's most recognised as Dustin Henderson's long-distance girlfriend, having met at a summer camp. She even assisted him in building a long-range radio.

Her last significant act was aiding Jonathan, Will and Mike in locating Eleven, though she was oblivious to the true nature of their mission.

Despite her father confiscating her computer and banning her from contacting agnostic Dustin, it remains uncertain whether the couple officially split between seasons. Suzie and Argyle share a vague link, with Suzie's elder sister, Eden, spending some time with Argyle in his van, leading to fan speculation about a potential relationship.

However, neither character has made an appearance in the fifth season thus far, nor have any of the main characters casually mentioned their whereabouts. This led to a post on the Stranger Things subreddit featuring a picture of Argyle and the caption: "Bro went to pick some mushrooms and never came back."

Another user expressed their disappointment, saying: "I'm so incredibly sad he's not in this season. I hope they bring Argyle back for the very last episode, but I know that's not going to happen. I'll really miss his character."

One viewer remarked: "I'm hopeful we at least get a mention of where they are now (including Suzie) because the Duffer bros have said there will be no loose ends!".

Meanwhile, another fan speculated: "I genuinely believe most of these side characters that don't have a lot of plot relevance will appear in the finale once Vecna's gone and the battle is over, sort of like an epilogue."

Stranger Things is streaming on Netflix.