Stranger Things cast transforms careers and personal lives after nine years of success on Netflix
Child actors from The Netflix series, which premieres the first episodes of the fifth and final season this Wednesday (26), marked the beginning of diversified professional trajectories. Esses young professionals balance fame with individual achievements, such as marriages and music releases.
Finn Wolfhard, interpreter of Gaten Matarazzo, who lives as Dustin, underwent surgery in 2020 to treat cleidocranial dysplasia, a genetic condition that affects bones and teeth. Caleb McLaughlin, Lucas aged 14 in 2016, adopted a more mature look and broke out in sports productions.
Other highlights include Noah Schnapp, who revealed his sexual orientation in 2023 after years of family reservation, and Sadie Sink, who joined the cast in the second season at age 14. Millie Bobby Brown, 11-year-old Eleven, married in 2024 and adopted a daughter with her husband.
The cast’s trajectory reflects the impact of the series, which lasted nine years and influenced careers in film and music.
Accelerated professional trajectories
Finn Wolfhard expanded his presence in Hollywood with roles in films such as “It: A Coisa” and “Ghostbusters: Depois by Aos 22 years old, he co-wrote and produced “Hell of a Summer” in 2023, demonstrating versatility beyond acting. Sua inclusion on the list Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2020 reinforces early recognition.
Millie Bobby Brown starred in seven films, including “Enola Holmes” and “Godzilla”, and received two Emmy nominations for Eleven. Aos 21 years old, she balances her schedule between independent productions and blockbusters, with a focus on strong female narratives.
Caleb McLaughlin debuted in “High Flying Bird” in 2019 and starred in “Shooting Stars: LeBron’s Vida
Striking personal revelations
Noah Schnapp, 11 years old at the beginning, went public in 2023 about his homosexuality, after hiding the fact from his family for 18 years. Essa’s statement coincided with his character Will’s gay coming out in season four, promoting discussions about LGBTQ+ representation in the media.
The actor studies at Wharton School of Universidade of Pensilvânia and maintains theatrical projects, such as “Abe” in 2019 alongside Seu Jorge. Sua personal openness gained support from fans and colleagues, expanding the debate about queer visibility in teen series.
Gaten Matarazzo manages cleidocranial dysplasia with donation campaigns via CCD Smiles, an organization that supports those affected by the condition. Aos 23 years old, he is part of the cast at charity events and balances his health with recordings.
Musical forays and fashion
Finn Wolfhard forms the duo The Aubreys and was part of the band Calpurnia, releasing albums that mix indie rock with influences from the 1980s, the central theme of Esses side projects attract an audience beyond the series’ fans, with sold-out shows in 2024.
Sadie Sink, 23, modeled for brands like Gucci and posed in Vogue campaigns during her teenage years. Sua transition to fashion includes partnerships with emerging designers, consolidating her as a young style icon.
- The Aubreys releases: “Carrier” EP in 2023 with tracks about coming of age.
- Campaigns from Sink: Fotos to Calvin Klein in 2022, highlighting female empowerment.
- Musical events: Apresentações of Wolfhard at the Lollapalooza festival in 2024.
Weddings and family in the cast
Millie Bobby Brown married Jake Bongiovi, son of Jon Bon Jovi, in a low-key ceremony in 2024 and the couple adopted a daughter the same year. Aos 21 years old, she shares family moments on social networks, prioritizing privacy amid fame.
The marriage reflects the cast’s rapid maturity, with Brown acting in “Damsel” while managing the new parenting phase. Bongiovi, 22, supports her career with appearances on film sets.
This union highlights how actors navigate relationships in the spotlight, supporting each other in creative projects.
Ongoing health and activism
Gaten Matarazzo underwent surgery in 2020 to correct dental problems caused by cleidocranial dysplasia, a condition present since birth. The procedure improved his quality of life and inspired annual awareness campaigns.
At 23, he promotes CCD Smiles at fan conventions, raising funds for affordable treatments. Sua character Dustin embodies traits of the syndrome, educating the public about genetic rareties.
Caleb McLaughlin participates in anti-racism initiatives in Hollywood, using his platform to discuss black representation in child casts. Esses efforts complement its premiere schedule in 2025.
Future beyond Hawkins
Sadie Sink prepares for roles in independent thrillers following “The Whale” in 2022.
Noah Schnapp plans to graduate in 2026, focusing on business and audiovisual production. Ele mentions interest in documentaries about queer identity.
The cast reunites for the fifth season, with makeup techniques for rejuvenation due to the hiatus in recording. Farewell to Stranger Things opens doors for spin-offs and collaborations.
