Behind every successful actor is often a supportive family, and that’s undoubtedly true for Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo. His father, Gaetano John Matarazzo Jr., has remained largely out of the spotlight, yet played a significant role in his son’s journey to stardom. Here’s what we know about the man who helped raise one of television’s most beloved young actors.
Who is Gaetano John Matarazzo Jr.?
Gaetano John Matarazzo Jr., often referred to as Gaten Sr., is the proud father of actor Gaetano John Matarazzo III—better known to millions as Dustin Henderson from Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things. Unlike his famous son, Gaetano Jr. prefers to maintain a private life away from the media glare, though his influence on his children’s success is undeniable.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Gaetano Jr. comes from Italian heritage, with his family roots tracing back to Avellino, Italy.
The name Gaetano has been passed down through three generations, from his father (also named Gaetano) to himself, and then to his now-famous son. It’s a traditional Italian name that holds deep family significance.
Gaetano Jr. attended Pinelands Regional High School in New Jersey, where he was known for his athletic abilities during his youth. Following his education, he joined the workforce at the Golden Nugget Casino, where he worked for many years. Details about his specific role at the casino aren’t widely publicised.
Beyond his professional life, Gaetano Jr. has channelled his energy into what matters most to him: his family and advocacy work for those affected by rare medical conditions.
The Matarazzo family continues to reside in Little Egg Harbour Township, New Jersey, the same community where they raised their children. Gaetano Jr. maintains a minimal social media presence, with a private Instagram account (@gatenmatarazzojr) accessible only to close friends and family.
This privacy preference extends throughout the family, with Heather’s Twitter account (@HeatherMataraz2) remaining largely inactive. The couple seems content living quietly, focusing on their family and charitable work rather than seeking attention for themselves.
Gaetano John Matarazzo Jr.’s Marriage
In 1998, Gaetano married Heather Rae Hendrickson, now known as Heather Matarazzo. She’s not to be confused with actress Heather Matarazzo from The Princess Diaries, a common mix-up that’s caused plenty of confusion online over the years.
The two actresses even shared a lighthearted moment about the name coincidence when they finally met in August 2025.
Gaetano’s wife, Heather, hails from Waterford, Connecticut, and graduated from Waterford High School in 1991. The couple married young and has built a strong partnership centred around their family.
Heather was involved in the drama club during her school years, which likely influenced her children’s creative pursuits. Together, they’ve created a nurturing environment that’s allowed all three of their children to explore their passions in the performing arts.
Gaetano John Matarazzo Jr. Children
Gaetano and Heather are parents to three children, each with their own unique talents:
Sabrina Matarazzo
Born on October 14, 1998, Sabrina is the eldest of the Matarazzo siblings. She inherited her mother’s love for performing and appeared in television commercials before co-founding the family band Work in Progress with her younger brother Carmen.
Sabrina has been a significant inspiration to her younger brother Gaten, who credits her with encouraging his interest in theatre.
When not pursuing her creative interests, Sabrina works in a restaurant in New Jersey and is in a relationship with Steffan Batullo. She remains close to her family and continues to live in the Garden State.
Gaetano John Matarazzo III (Gaten)
The middle child, born on September 8, 2002, at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London, Connecticut, is the family member who has achieved international fame. Gaten’s success on Stranger Things has brought attention to the entire family, but more importantly, it’s provided a platform for raising awareness about cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD).
Gaten was born with this rare genetic condition, which affects approximately one in every million births and impacts the development of bones and teeth.
The family initially lived in Mystic Village, Connecticut, but relocated to Little Egg Harbour Township, New Jersey, to be closer to Gaetano Jr.’s parents, who could provide additional support.
Carmen Matarazzo
The youngest Matarazzo, born on November 10, 2003, shares his siblings’ creative streak. Carmen is a talented drummer and plays in the family band Work in Progress alongside his sister Sabrina. Occasionally, Gaten joins in their musical sessions, though he modestly claims he can only “sing just a little bit.”
Carmen and Gaten share an exceptionally close bond, spending as much time together as their busy schedules allow. Despite being the youngest, Carmen is reportedly the tallest member of the family.
Co-Founding CCD Smiles
Perhaps Gaetano Jr.’s most significant contribution beyond his family is his role as co-founder of CCD Smiles. Established on January 25, 2017, the charity was created in partnership with his son Gaten and Dr Kelly Wosnik from Utah, who also lives with CCD.
CCD Smiles is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people with cleidocranial dysplasia through Connections, Awareness, Research, Education and Support.
The organisation helps cover the costs of expensive oral surgeries that many CCD patients require, procedures that can cost thousands of pounds and create significant financial hardship for families.
Gaetano John Matarazzo Jr. Net Worth
Whilst his son Gaten’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million as of 2024, largely thanks to his role in Stranger Things, where he reportedly earned approximately $7 million, Gaetano Jr.’s own financial details remain private.
Given his preference for keeping personal matters private, specific information about his net worth or current employment isn’t publicly available.
What’s clear is that Gaetano Jr. has prioritised raising well-adjusted, compassionate children over personal fame or fortune. The success of his children in their respective pursuits speaks volumes about the values he and Heather have instilled in them.
And really, isn’t that what great parenting looks like?