After nearly a decade of captivating audiences with its mix of ’80s nostalgia, supernatural thrills, and heartwarming friendships, “Stranger Things” has come to an end with its epic series finale. The finale, which was released in theaters and on Netflix on December 31, wraps up the storylines of the beloved ensemble cast, including Gaten Matarazzo’s character, Dustin Henderson.
Matarazzo, who has grown up in front of viewers’ eyes since the show’s debut, watched the finale on the big screen while visiting family in Jacksonville, Fla. He humorously shared that he went in disguise as the Grinch to avoid being recognized, but eventually revealed his identity when he realized the small theater audience.
In the finale, Dustin plays a crucial role in defeating the archvillain Vecna, showcasing his infectious optimism and unapologetic nerdiness. However, his standout moment comes during the graduation speech as the valedictorian of Hawkins High School’s Class of 1989. In a heartfelt and empowering speech, Dustin reflects on the power of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity. The scene culminates in a bold move as Dustin sheds his graduation robes for a Hellfire Club T-shirt, echoing a memorable line from Eddie Munson in Season 4.
Matarazzo reflects on the significance of Dustin’s speech, noting that it was a rare opportunity for a character to express their feelings with honesty and authenticity. Despite the intense moments leading up to the finale, Dustin’s story ends on an optimistic note, showing him embarking on new adventures with his unlikely best friend, Steve Harrington.
Speaking about the experience of closing the chapter on “Stranger Things,” Matarazzo shares his gratitude for the opportunity to grow alongside his character over the years. He acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the characters’ fates leading up to the finale but emphasizes that the show’s creators never intended for the main characters to meet a tragic end. Ultimately, the finale serves as a fitting conclusion to a groundbreaking series that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. I never could have anticipated the incredible bond that would form between Dustin and Steve, but I am so grateful for it. Our characters have grown so much over the years, and our relationship both on and off-screen has deepened as well. Joe and I have shared so many laughs, tears, and memories together, and I am truly thankful for his presence in my life.
As for Dustin and Steve becoming one of the show’s most iconic duos, I think it speaks to the power of friendship and the unexpected connections that can form in the most unlikely of circumstances. Their dynamic is a perfect blend of humor, heart, and loyalty, and I am so proud to have been a part of bringing that relationship to life on screen.
In the end, “Stranger Things” is a story about persevering through unimaginable odds, about friendship, love, and courage in the face of darkness. And I am so grateful to have been a part of that journey, to have played a role in telling this incredible story. As we bid farewell to the characters and the world of Hawkins, I will always carry with me the lessons I’ve learned and the memories I’ve made along the way. Thank you to the fans for your unwavering support, and thank you to the creators for giving us a story that will live on in our hearts forever. But I think the person I’ve grown closest to is Gaten [Matarazzo]. We have a very special bond and have been through a lot together. We’ve shared so many experiences on and off set, and I think we just understand each other in a unique way. As for who I’ve learned the most from, I would have to say Winona [Ryder]. She’s just so talented and has so much wisdom to share. Working with her has been a dream come true and I’ve learned so much just by watching her work.
Overall, my time on Stranger Things has been life-changing. I never thought I’d be a part of something so special, and I’m grateful every day for the experiences and relationships I’ve gained from it. It’s truly been a journey of growth and self-discovery, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next. As we reflect on the friendships formed during our time on “Stranger Things,” it’s evident that the bond between the cast members goes beyond just on-screen chemistry. The ability to maintain genuine friendships individually with each other is something to be grateful for, especially in an industry where relationships can be fleeting. Living with Finn Wolfhard for a year solidified a unique connection, a cadence that can only be achieved through spending countless mornings and nights together. Witnessing his success in various projects was not only cool but also inspiring.
And then there’s Caleb, a friend who has a special quality that makes you feel safe and understood. The heart-to-heart conversations with him have been profound, and his level of respect for others is truly admirable. Caleb exemplifies what it means to be a good friend, and his influence has been invaluable.
As we bid farewell to “Stranger Things,” the legacy of Dustin Henderson is one that embodies enthusiasm. Despite facing grave danger and the unknown, Dustin’s unwavering excitement and curiosity shine through. He approaches every challenge with a smile, fully aware of the gravity of the situation but still marveling at the wonders of the world. His nerdy interests and eagerness to learn are traits that make him endearing and relatable. Embracing the unknown with a sense of wonder and excitement is a quality that we can all strive to embody.
In conclusion, the friendships formed on the set of “Stranger Things” have left a lasting impact on the cast members. The genuine connections and shared experiences have created bonds that go beyond the show itself. As we look back on our time together, we are grateful for the friendships that have been forged and the lessons learned from each other. And as we move forward, we carry with us the legacy of enthusiasm and curiosity that Dustin Henderson has instilled in us.
