Gaetano John "Gaten" Matarazzo III, born on September 8, 2002, in New Jersey, USA, is an American actor widely recognized for his engaging performances and distinctive charisma. Matarazzo first captured the public's attention with his portrayal of Dustin Henderson in the critically acclaimed Netflix series Stranger Things, which premiered in 2016. His role as the lovable, quirky member of a group of friends fighting supernatural forces in their small town earned him international fame and a dedicated fan base.

Gaten's journey in the entertainment industry began long before his breakout role in Stranger Things. He made his stage debut on Broadway, taking on the role of Benjamin in the musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert from 2011 to 2012. His talent and stage presence were evident early on, leading him to portray Gavroche in the iconic musical Les Misérables from 2014 to 2015. These early experiences on stage laid the groundwork for his future successes in television and film.

With the success of Stranger Things, Gaten became a household name. The series, set in the 1980s, blends elements of horror, science fiction, and drama, showcasing a group of children and their adventures against otherworldly threats. Matarazzo's character, Dustin, is known for his intelligence, humor, and loyalty, making him a fan favorite. His performance has been pivotal in the show's popularity, which has received numerous awards and nominations throughout its run.

In addition to his work on Stranger Things, Gaten hosted the Netflix hidden camera prank show Prank Encounters from 2019 to 2021, further showcasing his comedic talents and charm. Beyond television, he expanded his repertoire by co-starring in the coming-of-age comedy film Honor Society in 2022, which highlighted his versatility as an actor. Moreover, he lent his voice to Boris the Dragon in the animated fantasy comedy film My Father's Dragon, displaying his ability to engage younger audiences through voice work.

Gaten Matarazzo continues to thrive in the entertainment industry, balancing his acting career with advocacy for those with cleidocranial dysplasia, a condition he has lived with since birth. He is passionate about raising awareness and promoting acceptance of differences, using his platform to inspire others. As he embarks on new projects and continues to evolve as an actor, Gaten remains a beloved figure in contemporary pop culture, known for his talent, warmth, and determination.