The Ultimate Guide to Gaten Matarazzo: Career, Facts & More

Who Is Gaten Matarazzo and Why He’s More Than Just a Stranger Things Star

Gaten matarazzo is an American actor best known for playing Dustin Henderson in Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things, but his story goes far beyond the fictional town of Hawkins. Born on September 8, 2002, this 22-year-old has become a powerful advocate for disability representation while building an impressive career that spans Broadway, television, and film.

Quick Facts About Gaten Matarazzo:

• Full Name: Gaetano John Matarazzo III
• Born: September 8, 2002, in New London, Connecticut
• Best Known For: Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things (2016-present)
• Medical Condition: Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD), affecting 1 in 1 million people
• Career Start: Broadway at age 9 in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
• Net Worth: Approximately $4 million
• Notable Achievement: Screen Actors Guild Award winner for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble

What makes Gaten’s story particularly compelling is how he’s turned his rare genetic condition into a platform for advocacy. Cleidocranial dysplasia affects bone and tooth development, and instead of hiding this challenge, he’s made it central to both his on-screen character and his real-world mission to help others with CCD.

From his early days performing in New Jersey community theater to earning $250,000 per episode for Stranger Things’ later seasons, Gaten has proven that authentic representation matters. He’s used his growing platform to raise funds for CCD Smiles, a charity supporting oral surgeries for people with his condition.

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Early Life, Family & The First Spotlight

Gaten matarazzo came into this world on September 8, 2002, in New London, Connecticut, born to parents Gaetano Matarazzo Jr. and Heather Matarazzo. His full name – Gaetano John Matarazzo III – carries the weight of Italian-American tradition, honoring both his father and grandfather before him.

When Gaten was young, the family moved to Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, where he’d spend his formative years. Growing up alongside his sisters Carmen and Sabrina, the Matarazzo household was one where creativity flourished and differences were celebrated rather than hidden.

At just nine years old, he stepped onto the stage at the 2011 Starpower Talent Competition Nationals and delivered a vocal solo of “Ben” that earned him third place. His parents recognized something special in their son’s performance abilities and began making frequent trips to New York City for auditions and training.

What Is Cleidocranial Dysplasia?

Here’s where Gaten matarazzo’s story takes a turn that makes him truly extraordinary. Cleidocranial dysplasia, or CCD, is a rare genetic mutation that affects roughly 1 in 1 million people worldwide.

CCD primarily impacts bone and tooth development, particularly affecting the collarbones and skull formation. In Gaten’s case, his underdeveloped collarbones allow him to do that famous “shoulder thing” – bringing his shoulders together in front of his chest. What started as a medical quirk became an endearing character trait that millions of Stranger Things fans now associate with Dustin Henderson.

The dental challenges are where CCD gets really complicated. People with this condition face delayed tooth development, extra teeth that shouldn’t be there, and teeth that simply refuse to emerge naturally. By age 17, Gaten had already undergone multiple surgeries and procedures, including the removal of 14 supernumerary teeth.

What makes Gaten’s approach remarkable is his commitment to health advocacy. He’s been crystal clear that treating CCD isn’t about cosmetics – it’s about health and quality of life. Without proper intervention, teeth can fuse to the jaw, creating problems that require dentures or implants later in life.

Growing Up Center-Stage

Before Gaten matarazzo became the beloved Dustin we know today, he was already making his mark in community theater and vocal competitions. Those early performances in New Jersey gave him something precious – a space where being different wasn’t just okay, it was actually an advantage.

Those early theater experiences taught him discipline, professionalism, and the kind of work ethic that would serve him well when he eventually landed on Broadway. More importantly, they showed him that authentic storytelling – including his own story – had the power to connect with audiences in ways that went far beyond entertainment.

Gaten Matarazzo’s Acting Career Timeline

Gaten matarazzo‘s journey from a nine-year-old Broadway performer to a globally recognized star reads like a Hollywood dream – except it’s all real. His career timeline shows remarkable consistency and growth, with each role building on the last to create the versatile performer we know today.

The foundation of his success was laid on Broadway stages, where young Gaten learned the discipline and craft that would serve him throughout his career. His debut as Benjamin in “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” at just nine years old was followed by playing Gavroche in “Les Misérables,” the scrappy street urchin whose songs bring audiences to tears.

The transition to screen work began in 2016 with Stranger Things, but Gaten didn’t abandon his theatrical roots. His hosting role on “Prank Encounters” (2019-2021) showed his natural charisma and comedic timing, while voice acting in “The Angry Birds Movie 2” (2019) and “My Father’s Dragon” (2022) demonstrated his range beyond live-action performance.

Stage Milestones	Screen Milestones
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (2011)	Stranger Things Season 1 (2016)
Les Misérables (2012-2013)	Prank Encounters host (2019)
Dear Evan Hansen (2023)	The Angry Birds Movie 2 (2019)
Into the Woods (2023)	Honor Society (2022)
Sweeney Todd (2024)	My Father’s Dragon (2022)

Broadway Beginnings

When Gaten matarazzo stepped onto a Broadway stage at nine years old, he wasn’t just fulfilling a childhood dream – he was beginning a masterclass in professional performance. Playing Benjamin in “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” meant working alongside seasoned Broadway veterans, learning to hit his marks perfectly, and delivering consistent performances eight times a week.

His most memorable early role was Gavroche in “Les Misérables,” the brave street child who becomes a symbol of hope in the musical. This wasn’t just about singing well – Gavroche requires an actor who can embody both childlike innocence and streetwise courage. Gaten’s natural charisma and emotional depth made him perfect for the role.

The discipline required for Broadway can’t be overstated. This experience taught Gaten timing, professionalism, and how to work as part of an ensemble – skills that would prove invaluable when he joined the cast of Stranger Things.

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How ‘Stranger Things’ Made Gaten Matarazzo a Household Name

The audition that changed everything happened when Gaten matarazzo was just thirteen. The Duffer Brothers weren’t specifically looking for an actor with cleidocranial dysplasia when they were casting Dustin Henderson, but when Gaten mentioned his condition during the audition process, something clicked. They realized this could add authentic depth to the character.

What happened next was television magic. The show’s writers incorporated Dustin’s CCD into the storyline, creating that now-iconic scene where he explains his condition to a bully and demonstrates his “shoulder thing.” This moment of vulnerability and strength became a defining characteristic of both the character and the show’s approach to authentic representation.

The financial success of Stranger Things tells its own story. Gaten’s salary progression reflects the show’s massive popularity:

• Season 1: $20,000 per episode
• Season 2: $16,800 per episode
• Season 3: $250,000 per episode
• Season 5: $7 million total

The ensemble cast won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series, with Gaten and his co-stars taking home multiple wins over the years.

For more fascinating details about his journey, check out 9 Things You Didn’t Know About Gaten Matarazzo III (Stranger Things).

Beyond Hawkins: Recent & Upcoming Projects for Gaten Matarazzo

While Dustin Henderson remains his most famous role, Gaten matarazzo has been strategically building a diverse portfolio that showcases his range. His hosting work on Netflix’s “Prank Encounters” revealed his natural comedic abilities, while voice acting has become a particular strength.

Recently, Gaten has been returning to his theatrical roots with renewed passion. His performances in “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Into the Woods” have reminded Broadway audiences of his incredible stage presence and vocal abilities. His upcoming work in “Sweeney Todd” represents perhaps his most challenging theatrical role yet.

The film “Honor Society” demonstrated his ability to handle different genres beyond the science fiction field that made him famous.

Living With CCD & Turning Fame Into Advocacy

When Gaten matarazzo first stepped into the spotlight, he faced a choice that would define his career: hide his cleidocranial dysplasia or accept it as part of his story. Thankfully for millions of fans worldwide, he chose the latter, changing his rare genetic condition into a powerful platform for change.

The magic happened during his Stranger Things audition when he mentioned his CCD to the Duffer Brothers. Instead of seeing it as a limitation, they wrote it directly into Dustin Henderson’s character, creating one of television’s most authentic portrayals of disability.

What makes Gaten’s approach so refreshing is his openness about the medical realities of living with CCD. He’s documented his surgical journey on social media, sharing everything from pre-surgery nerves to post-procedure recovery photos. His January 2020 Instagram post showing him giving a thumbs-up after his fourth surgery perfectly captures his positive attitude.

His advocacy work centers around CCD Smiles, a charity that helps families afford the oral surgeries that are often essential for people with cleidocranial dysplasia. Gaten has been crystal clear about something many people don’t understand: these aren’t cosmetic procedures. For people with CCD, proper dental treatment is crucial for health and well-being, as teeth can fuse to the jaw without intervention.

Through his charity T-shirt line, social media campaigns, and partnership with Verizon FiOS, Gaten has raised significant funds and awareness for CCD treatment. His message to healthcare providers is particularly important – he advocates for early intervention with orthodontic appliances rather than waiting to see if teeth emerge naturally.

Philanthropy Highlights

Gaten matarazzo‘s charitable work extends far beyond just talking about CCD – he’s created real, measurable impact. His sister Carmen kicked off a Facebook campaign in November 2017 that raised substantial funds for CCD Smiles.

With 14 million Instagram followers, Gaten has turned his social media presence into a fundraising powerhouse. He regularly shares updates about CCD Smiles events, posts donation links, and uses his platform to educate people about the realities of living with his condition.

His fundraising efforts have included charity T-shirt sales with proceeds going directly to CCD Smiles, celebrity gaming streams where he plays Dungeons & Dragons with other stars to raise money, and appearances at medical conferences where he speaks about the importance of early CCD treatment.

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Influence on Disability Representation in Media

The impact of Gaten matarazzo‘s authentic portrayal of disability in Stranger Things has rippled far beyond the show itself. By bringing his real-life experience to Dustin Henderson, he’s helped shift how Hollywood thinks about disability representation – from something that defines a character to something that’s simply part of who they are.

What’s brilliant about Dustin’s character is that his CCD is acknowledged and integrated into the story without becoming his entire identity. He’s the group’s tech genius, the loyal friend who never gives up, and the one who brings humor to the darkest moments.

This approach has influenced casting directors and writers across the industry to think differently about disability in storytelling. Perhaps most importantly, his visibility has encouraged other young performers with disabilities to pursue their dreams in entertainment.

Personal Life, Hobbies & Fun Facts

When the cameras stop rolling and the stage lights dim, Gaten matarazzo lives a refreshingly normal life that balances his celebrity status with genuine personal interests. His relationship with Lizzy Yu has become a sweet fixture on his social media, where the couple shares moments that show a healthy, supportive partnership.

Music flows through Gaten’s life like a constant thread connecting his past and present. His band Work In Progress gives him an outlet to explore his musical side beyond the polished performances of Broadway. His vegetarian lifestyle reflects the thoughtful approach he takes to most aspects of his life.

The famous “shoulder thing” that became part of Dustin Henderson’s character demonstrates how Gaten has turned what could be seen as a limitation into something uniquely his own. His ability to bring his shoulders together due to his underdeveloped collarbones has become an endearing trademark that fans love to see.

Quick-Fire Trivia About Gaten Matarazzo

The details of Gaten matarazzo‘s life reveal someone who accepts both his heritage and his uniqueness with equal pride. His full name, Gaetano John Matarazzo III, carries the weight of Italian family tradition while he’s carved out his own modern path in entertainment.

His trademark greeting “Yo Dudes” has become as recognizable as his curly hair and infectious smile. The entertainment world took notice when he appeared in Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj’s music video for “Swish Swish”, proving that his appeal extends far beyond the Stranger Things fanbase.

His love for classic films like “The Goonies” and the Star Wars franchise makes perfect sense when you consider his role in Stranger Things. Standing at 5’4½” tall, Gaten represents confidence at any height, while his openness about using dentures due to his CCD continues his mission of normalizing medical differences.

His 14 million Instagram followers as of 2024 show just how much his authenticity resonates with people worldwide. As a Virgo born on September 8th, he embodies many of the traits associated with his sign – attention to detail, reliability, and a genuine desire to help others.

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Awards, Recognitions & Net-Worth Snapshot

Gaten matarazzo‘s trophy case reflects his success across multiple platforms. His most significant achievement is winning the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for Stranger Things, which he’s won multiple times alongside his castmates.

His other nominations include MTV Movie & TV Awards, Young Artist Award nominations, Saturn Award nominations, and Teen Choice Award nominations reflecting his popularity with younger audiences.

His estimated net worth of $4 million reflects not just his Stranger Things earnings, but also his diverse income streams from voice work, hosting, brand partnerships, and theater performances. His brand deals with companies like Verizon FiOS and Old Navy have added significantly to his earnings.

The progression of his Stranger Things salary tells the story of the show’s success:

• Starting at $20,000 per episode in Season 1
• Reaching $250,000 per episode by Season 3
• Earning $7 million for the final season

Future Outlook for Gaten Matarazzo

As Stranger Things prepares to wrap up with Season 5, Gaten matarazzo is looking toward the future with excitement and ambition. He’s expressed interest in taking on more adult roles that showcase his range beyond the beloved Dustin Henderson character.

His recent return to Broadway suggests that theater will remain an important part of his career. He’s also shown interest in expanding into producing and potentially directing, having already served as executive producer on Prank Encounters.

Gaten has mentioned wanting to mentor other young performers, particularly those with disabilities who might face additional challenges in the entertainment industry. His success story provides a roadmap for others who want to turn their differences into strengths.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gaten Matarazzo

How has cleidocranial dysplasia affected his career?

Surprisingly, Gaten matarazzo‘s CCD has become one of his greatest career assets rather than a hindrance. When he auditioned for Stranger Things, the Duffer Brothers were so impressed by his openness about his condition that they wrote it directly into Dustin Henderson’s character. This authentic representation made his performance more genuine and relatable to audiences worldwide.

His distinctive appearance has made him instantly memorable in auditions. The famous “shoulder thing” where he can bring his shoulders together due to his underdeveloped collarbones became an iconic moment in Stranger Things that fans still love to reference.

What surgeries has he undergone for CCD?

By his late teens, Gaten matarazzo had undergone at least four major surgeries related to his cleidocranial dysplasia. His most significant procedure involved removing 14 supernumerary teeth – extra teeth that people with CCD often develop. He documented this surgery on Instagram, sharing post-procedure photos with his characteristic positive attitude.

These surgeries aren’t cosmetic choices – they’re medically necessary for people with CCD. Without proper intervention, teeth can fuse to the jawbone, creating more complex problems later in life. He currently uses dentures to help with his dental challenges, and his openness about this has helped reduce stigma for others facing similar situations.

What projects is he working on after Stranger Things?

While Gaten matarazzo is wrapping up his iconic role as Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things Season 5, he’s been actively building a diverse portfolio beyond Hawkins. His return to Broadway has been particularly exciting, with recent performances in Dear Evan Hansen, Into the Woods, and Sweeney Todd.

Voice acting has become another major focus, following his work in “The Angry Birds Movie 2” and “My Father’s Dragon.” His experience as executive producer on Netflix’s “Prank Encounters” has sparked interest in expanding into producing and directing roles.

Conclusion

Gaten matarazzo‘s journey from a young boy with a rare genetic condition to a globally recognized actor and advocate represents something truly special in entertainment. His story shows us that embracing what makes you different, combined with hard work and genuine kindness, can create opportunities that seemed impossible just a few years ago.

What makes Gaten’s story particularly inspiring is how he approaches life with curiosity and openness. His commitment to his vegetarian lifestyle, even while navigating the busy world of Hollywood, mirrors the thoughtful choices many make when pursuing their passions.

The advocacy work he’s done with CCD Smiles demonstrates using your platform to help others find new possibilities. His career-long commitment to authentic storytelling reminds us why genuine connection matters in both entertainment and life experiences.

His resilience and positive outlook inspire not just aspiring actors, but anyone who’s ever felt different or faced unexpected challenges while pursuing their dreams. As Stranger Things wraps up and Gaten moves into the next chapter of his career, we’re excited to see how he continues growing as an artist and advocate.

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