Introduction
Hey readers! Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the age and career of Gaten Matarazzo, the beloved star of the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things." Get ready to delve into his life, from his humble beginnings to his rise to stardom.
Early Life and Career
Gaten Matarazzo was born on September 8, 2002, in Little Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. At the tender age of nine, he made his Broadway debut in "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert." His exceptional talent and captivating stage presence quickly gained attention, leading to roles in other Broadway productions such as "Les Misérables" and "The King and I."
Breakthrough with "Stranger Things"
In 2016, Matarazzo’s career skyrocketed with his breakout role as Dustin Henderson in the Netflix original series "Stranger Things." His charming personality, clever wit, and infectious enthusiasm resonated with audiences worldwide, making him a fan favorite. The success of the show has propelled Matarazzo to international fame, solidifying his status as a rising star.
Dustin’s Age in "Stranger Things"
Throughout the first four seasons of "Stranger Things," Dustin’s age has been a topic of some speculation among fans. In the first season, which takes place in 1983, Dustin is 12 years old. As the seasons progress, so does Dustin’s age, aligning with the real-time passage of time. In season 4, which is set in 1986, Dustin is 15 years old.
Matarazzo’s Age Today
As of [current_date], Gaten Matarazzo is 20 years old. He recently celebrated his 20th birthday on September 8, 2022. Despite reaching adulthood, Matarazzo maintains his youthful charm and infectious enthusiasm that made him a star in the first place.
"Stranger Things" Success and Accolades
The success of "Stranger Things" has not only boosted Matarazzo’s career but has also earned him numerous accolades and recognition. Here’s a brief overview of his awards and nominations:
Emmy Award Nominations
- Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (2017, 2018)
Screen Actors Guild Awards
- Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (2017, 2018, 2020)
Critics’ Choice Awards
- Best Young Performer in a Television Series (2017)
Beyond "Stranger Things": Matarazzo’s Other Projects
While "Stranger Things" has been a defining role in Matarazzo’s career, he has also branched out into other projects. He has appeared in television shows such as "Ridiculousness" and "Lip Sync Battle," as well as the film "The Angry Birds Movie 2." Matarazzo has also lent his voice to animated projects, including "Sausage Party" and the upcoming Disney animated film "Encanto."
Cleidocranial Dysplasia and Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Matarazzo is open about living with cleidocranial dysplasia, a rare genetic condition that affects the development of bones and teeth, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a neurological condition that affects the nerves in the arms and legs. He has used his platform to raise awareness about these conditions and advocate for individuals with disabilities.
Table: Gaten Matarazzo’s Age Breakdown
| Year | Age | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 0 | Born |
| 2011 | 9 | Broadway debut in "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" |
| 2016 | 14 | Dustin Henderson in "Stranger Things" (Season 1) |
| 2017 | 15 | Dustin Henderson in "Stranger Things" (Season 2) |
| 2019 | 17 | Dustin Henderson in "Stranger Things" (Season 3) |
| 2022 | 20 | Dustin Henderson in "Stranger Things" (Season 4) |
Conclusion
Gaten Matarazzo’s journey from a Broadway stage actor to a global star has been nothing short of extraordinary. His talent, charm, and unwavering spirit have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. As he continues to grow and evolve, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this bright young star.
Readers, if you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our other in-depth guides on the cast of "Stranger Things." From Millie Bobby Brown to David Harbour, we’ve got all the scoop on the beloved characters and actors that bring the Upside Down to life.
FAQ about Gaten Matarazzo
How old is Gaten Matarazzo?
21 years old (as of 2023)
When was Gaten Matarazzo born?
September 8, 2002
Where was Gaten Matarazzo born?
Stockton, California, USA
What is Gaten Matarazzo’s height?
5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
What is Gaten Matarazzo’s nationality?
American
What is Gaten Matarazzo’s ethnicity?
Italian, Polish, and Hungarian
What is Gaten Matarazzo’s birth sign?
Virgo
What is Gaten Matarazzo’s famous role?
Dustin Henderson in the TV series "Stranger Things"
What is Gaten Matarazzo’s net worth?
Estimated to be around $5 million
What is Gaten Matarazzo’s claim to fame?
His role as Dustin Henderson in the Netflix series "Stranger Things", which gained him both critical acclaim and widespread popularity.
