Anyone who has watched Stranger Things knows Dustin Henderson’s gap-toothed grin and quick wit. But behind the character lies a real story: Gaten Matarazzo was born with a rare genetic condition called cleidocranial dysplasia, and he has used his spotlight to raise awareness about it. This article separates what’s confirmed from what’s still unclear—covering his diagnosis, his relationship with Elizabeth Yu, and his stance on LGBTQ+ rights.

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Known for: Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things (2016–2025) ·
Diagnosed condition: Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) ·
Instagram followers: 19 million ·
Birthplace: New London, Connecticut, USA ·
Age (as of 2025): 22

Quick snapshot

1Diagnosis
2Relationship
3LGBTQ+ Allyship
  • Reportedly identified as a public ally in a Stranger Things interview (TikTok (attitudemag))
  • No primary source statement from Matarazzo directly confirmed (TikTok (attitudemag))
  • Cast members support LGBTQ+ rights but specific claims remain unverified (TikTok (attitudemag))
4Teeth Loss in Season 3
  • Dustin’s character loses teeth in season 3 as part of a super-soldier plot (TikTok (mheff_official))
  • Real-life CCD contributed to the character detail being written into the show (Instagram Reel)
Key facts about Gaten Matarazzo
Attribute Value
Full name Gaten John Matarazzo III
Date of birth September 8, 2002
Height 5 ft 5 in (165 cm)
Diagnosis Cleidocranial dysplasia
Partner Elizabeth (Lizzy) Yu
Instagram handle @gatenmatarazzo

What is Gaten Matarazzo diagnosed with?

Gaten Matarazzo was diagnosed with cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD), a genetic condition that primarily affects bone and tooth development. CCD is considered a rare disorder, and Matarazzo has been open about its impact on his life since he was a child (ARY News Asia (Facebook post)).

What is cleidocranial dysplasia?

CCD is caused by mutations in the RUNX2 gene and can lead to delayed closure of the skull sutures, absent or underdeveloped collarbones, and dental anomalies including missing or extra teeth (TikTok (kennybrowndds)). In Matarazzo’s case, the condition explains why he was missing some permanent teeth—a trait that the show’s creators wrote into his character Dustin Henderson.

How does CCD affect teeth and bones?

People with CCD often have supernumerary teeth (extra teeth) or missing teeth, and their bones may be more fragile. The condition does not affect intelligence, but it does require ongoing dental and orthopedic care. Matarazzo has undergone multiple surgeries and dental procedures, which he has documented on social media to educate fans (Instagram Reel).

Has Gaten Matarazzo spoken publicly about CCD?

Yes—Matarazzo has been a vocal advocate for CCD awareness since his early appearances on Stranger Things. He has given interviews and used his platform to explain the condition to millions of viewers (ARY News Asia (Facebook post)). Notably, his advocacy has been cited as a key factor in the show’s inclusive portrayal of disabilities.

Bottom line: Gaten Matarazzo has cleidocranial dysplasia, a rare genetic condition that affects his teeth and bones. He has turned his diagnosis into a platform for awareness, and the condition was incorporated into his iconic Stranger Things role.

Is Gaten Matarazzo in a relationship?

According to multiple social media posts, Matarazzo is reportedly in a relationship with Elizabeth (Lizzy) Yu. However, the evidence is largely based on fan speculation and a few shared posts, rather than a confirmed public statement from the couple.

Are Lizzy Yu and Gaten still together?

As of early 2025, social media accounts linked to both individuals suggest the relationship is ongoing. A TikTok post from attitudemag references the pair together, but no official confirmation has been released (TikTok (attitudemag)). The exact timeline of their relationship remains unclear.

What is Elizabeth Yu’s ethnicity?

Elizabeth Yu is of Asian descent, specifically Chinese, as noted in the same social media posts. No further details about her background have been independently verified