The long-awaited final season of Stranger Things is almost here, and while fans are bracing for the emotional rollercoaster, it’s also a time to reflect on the journey the show and its characters have taken. From its debut in July 2016, Stranger Things quickly became a pop culture phenomenon, and as we approach the last episodes—set to release over the next few months—there's still plenty to celebrate, including some behind-the-scenes stories that have shaped the characters we know and love.

One such story involves Gaten Matarazzo, who portrays Dustin Henderson, one of the central characters in the series. Matarazzo, now 23, has been with Stranger Things since the very first season, and over the course of the show, his character has grown alongside him. However, there’s something about Matarazzo’s real life that’s tied directly to his character’s storyline.

Matarazzo has a condition known as cleidocranial dysplasia, a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of bones and teeth. In the past, he has spoken about how the condition had made it difficult for him to land roles in Hollywood, as it led to physical features that didn’t fit typical casting calls. In fact, Matarazzo himself has said that it was "one of the biggest reasons" he didn’t get certain parts earlier in his career.

However, when he auditioned for Stranger Things, he explained his condition to the show's creators, and they decided to incorporate it into the character of Dustin. From the very first season, Dustin’s struggle with his teeth was written into the show’s narrative, with the character explaining to his bullies that his teeth were "still coming in." This personal detail added an authentic layer to the character and was handled in a realistic way, showing how Dustin faced some teasing from his peers.

They're back for one final series (Sebastian Reuter/Getty Images for Netflix)

Matarazzo was fully on board with this decision, telling the creators that it was totally "cool" to incorporate it into the show. He also appreciated that it was portrayed realistically, making it clear that the kids in the show weren't just bullying Dustin in a superficial way, but for something that was a genuine part of his life. “Once I got the part, they said they’re gonna incorporate that and use it in a realistic way," Matarazzo explained in an interview.

For Matarazzo, the condition means that he was born without collarbones, which can affect the growth of both his face and his teeth. "I just want to raise awareness for it and let people know that it's not something that you should be afraid of showing," he shared in a 2016 interview. As for his teeth, he explained that he still has baby teeth, and that the ones he has in the show are fake. “It affects your facial growth, your skull growth, it affects your teeth," Matarazzo said.

This personal detail has made Dustin one of the most relatable and endearing characters on the show, and it’s a testament to how Stranger Things has used the actors' real experiences to enhance their roles. The inclusion of Matarazzo’s condition not only allowed him to bring a personal touch to his portrayal of Dustin but also helped raise awareness about cleidocranial dysplasia, showing that even something that might be seen as a challenge can become a source of strength.

As we gear up for the final season of Stranger Things, it’s clear that Matarazzo’s journey—both on and off-screen—has been an important part of the show’s success. His story reminds us that representation, authenticity, and awareness can go a long way, especially in a series that has meant so much to its fans. (Netflix)