5 fun facts about Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo (you may not know)

I bet if you asked any Stranger Things fan about Dustin Henderson, not one would tell you that they don’t like the character. He’s my favorite of the kids, and it’s thanks to talented actor Gaten Matarazzo who brings the character to life!

Dustin is probably the smartest and most efficient of the group. He always knows what’s going on, and is ready to get the Hawkins heroes out of the supernatural trouble that comes their way. He’s so charming and endearing, you can’t help but like the young teen.

Like for many of the actors on the Netflix Original, this was Matarazzo’s breakout role. At least on television. Think you know everything about the young star? We’ve shared a few fun facts below!

5 fun facts about Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo

A Broadway star

Now 19, the actor began his career on Broadway when he was just 10 years old! He snagged the roles of Benjamin in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Gavroche in Les Misérables.

Accidentally famous

So how was the talent discovered at such a young age? His two sisters have acted in television commercials. When he went to an interview with one of his siblings, the manager asked him if he wanted to perform as well. And the rest is history!

Not so stranger co-stars

Before being cast in Stranger Things, Matarazzo was already friends with Caleb McLaughlin, who plays Lucas Sinclair, thanks to their time on Broadway. And the two already knew another of their co-stars, Sadie Sink, from her time on stage as well!

Stranger Things audition was for Mike Wheeler

Matarazzo is so amazing at playing Dustin, it’s really hard to see him in another role. But, it could have happened! The actor’s initial audition was for the part of Mike. Could you imagine!?

Cleidocranial dysostosis (CCD)

The young star has a rare genetic condition called cleidocranial dysostosis (CCD), which affects the bones and teeth. He constantly raises awareness about CCD and works with CCD Smiles, an organization that helps cover costs of oral surgeries for people with the condition. The Stranger Things writers wrote in that the Dustin character has CCD as well.

Stranger Things seasons 1 to 4 are now streaming on Netflix.