Stranger Things' Gaten Matarazzo gets candid about being a child star

Stranger Things' Gaten Matarazzo Reflects on Childhood Fame

At just 14 years old, Gaten Matarazzo rose to worldwide fame as Dustin Henderson in Netflix's hit series Stranger Things. Now 23, the actor has shared insights about the challenges of growing up in the public eye.

Early Fame and Rapid Success

The sci-fi horror show quickly turned Gaten and his co-stars Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Caleb McLaughlin, Noah Schnapp, and Sadie Sink into household names well before their teenage years.

Impact on Personal Development

In a recent interview with Fault Magazine, Gaten spoke openly about the effects of early success. While grateful for the opportunities the show provided, he acknowledged it also complicated important aspects of his growth into adulthood.

“Being a child star had its ups and downs. I’m truly grateful for the experience, but it did hold back some parts of my personal development.”

Looking Ahead

Nearly a decade after the show's debut, the cast is preparing for the final farewell as the fifth and last season premieres this month.

Author's summary: Gaten Matarazzo candidly discusses how childhood fame from Stranger Things brought success but also stalled parts of his personal growth as he prepares to close this chapter.

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Daily Mail Daily Mail — 2025-11-05