Stranger Things' Gaten Matarazzo Gets Honest About Life as a Child Star
At just 14 years old, Gaten Matarazzo rose to international fame playing Dustin Henderson in Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things. Now 23, the actor reflects on what it was like to grow up in the public eye and how the experience shaped — and complicated — his path to adulthood.
Growing Up Famous
The sci-fi horror phenomenon made stars out of Matarazzo and his co-stars Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Caleb McLaughlin, Noah Schnapp, and Sadie Sink long before any of them reached high school. As the fifth and final season nears release, Matarazzo is bidding farewell to the show that defined his youth.
Personal Reflections
"Being a child star had its ups and downs," Matarazzo admitted in his interview with Fault Magazine, emphasizing that while he remains deeply grateful for the opportunities, the rapid fame also limited his personal development.
He shared that some fundamental teenage experiences passed him by, as his early success came with constant public attention and the responsibility of fame at a young age.
Looking Ahead
Now stepping into adulthood, Matarazzo continues to navigate his identity beyond the role that first brought him recognition, embracing both the challenges and lessons from his unique journey.
Author’s summary: Gaten Matarazzo reflects on his early fame from Stranger Things, acknowledging its blessings and the ways it shaped his personal growth.