Gaten Matarazzo GF Elizabeth Yu embodies a sweet synergy of talent and tenderness, supporting the Stranger Things heartthrob through his most pivotal chapters while carving her own path in Hollywood.
Born on September 8, 2002, in Little Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, Gaten Matarazzo, now 23 years old in 2025, has captivated global audiences as Dustin Henderson since Stranger Things premiered in 2016, with the fifth and final season wrapping production in August 2025 amid emotional farewells from co-stars like Millie Bobby Brown and Noah Schnapp.
His girlfriend Elizabeth Yu, 22 years old as of 2025 and known professionally as Lizzy Yu, rose to prominence as Princess Azula in Netflix’s live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender (2024), blending fierce screen presence with off-screen warmth.
The couple, who looks loved-up during a public appearance house-hunting in New York with Finn Wolfhard in August 2025, first sparked romance in May 2022 at a J-14 event, their love story a beacon of normalcy amid the Netflix stars‘ whirlwind. As stars Finn Wolfhard and Gaten reunite for post-show projects, Gaten’s bond with Yu highlights resilience, from red carpet debuts to quiet advocacy for his cleidocranial dysplasia condition.
Gaten Matarazzo GF Bio and Wiki
| Attribute | Gaten Matarazzo Details | Elizabeth Yu (Lizzy Yu) Details |
| Full Name | Gaten John Matarazzo III | Elizabeth Yu (Professional: Lizzy Yu) |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 2002 (Age: 23 years old in 2025) | December 1999 (Age: 22 years old in 2025; Exact day private) |
| Birthplace | Little Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, U.S. | New York City, U.S. |
| Nationality | American | American |
| Profession | Actor, singer, advocate; Known as Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things | Actress, model; Known as Princess Azula in Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender (2024) |
| Family | Parents: Phyllis and Patrick Matarazzo; Siblings: Three sisters (Sabrina, Caroline, Julia); Gaten Matarazzo GF: Elizabeth Yu since 2022; No children as of 2025 | Parents: Not publicly detailed; Siblings: One brother; Relationship: Dating Gaten Matarazzo since 2022; No children as of 2025 |
| Career Highlights | Broadway debut in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (2011, age 9); Recurring in Ambulance (2013); Breakthrough as Dustin in Stranger Things (2016-present, four seasons aired, season 5 wrapped 2025); Musical theater: Les Misérables (2014); Voice in The Loud House Movie (2021); Advocacy for cleidocranial dysplasia via National Foundation; 2024: Performed at D23 Expo with cast; 2025: Post-Stranger Things indie film Honor Society sequel teases | Modeling debut in NYC (2018); Theater: Miss Saigon off-Broadway (2020); TV: Recurring in Bull (2019); Breakthrough as Azula in Avatar: The Last Airbender (2024, Emmy buzz); Guest spots in Gotham Knights (2023); 2025: Auditioning for Marvel project; Collab with Gaten Matarazzo on charity event for Asian American representation |
This bio captures the intertwined worlds of Gaten Matarazzo GF Elizabeth Yu, a duo whose paths converged in the glow of young Hollywood.
Gaten Matarazzo’s Jersey Roots: From Stage Kid to Screen Sensation
Gaten Matarazzo GF dynamics thrive on shared authenticity, but Gaten’s story roots in New Jersey’s community theaters, where he first belted show tunes at age 7. Raised in a tight-knit Italian-American family, his early passion for performing shone through school plays, earning local buzz.
By 2011, at just 9 years old, Gaten landed his Broadway break in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, rubbing shoulders with pros while navigating his cleidocranial dysplasia diagnosis—a condition affecting bone growth that he’s since championed.
- Early Influences: Family sing-alongs to Broadway classics fueled his vocal chops, setting the stage for his eclectic talents.
- Advocacy Spark: At 12, Gaten spoke at the National Foundation for Cleidocranial Dysplasia, blending vulnerability with charisma.
These foundational years shaped the resilient star Gaten Matarazzo, whose off-screen life with Yu echoes that grounded spirit.
Breakthrough Audition: Landing Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things
The series Stranger Things call came in 2015, when 13-year-old Gaten auditioned for the wisecracking Dustin amid 1,000+ hopefuls. His chemistry with Finn Wolfhard—instant banter over Dungeons & Dragons—sealed the deal, launching a phenomenon.
Season 1 (2016) exploded, Gaten’s portrayal of the loyal, curly-haired brainiac winning hearts and Emmys for the ensemble.
- On-Set Magic: Improv sessions with Finn birthed iconic lines, forging Finn Wolfhard and Gaten Matarazzo‘s brotherly bond.
- Global Ripple: Overnight, Gaten became a Netflix poster child, attending premieres with family in tow.
This role catapulted Gaten Matarazzo into the stratosphere, where his girlfriend would later join the orbit.
As Stranger Things evolved, Gaten matured on-screen—from season 2‘s heartbreak (2017) to season 4‘s epic Upside Down battles (2022)—balancing teen angst with Dustin’s humor.
Off-camera, he pursued music, releasing originals like “Better Than Revenge” (2020) and touring with the cast’s supergroup.
- Challenges Met: Public scrutiny on his condition led to empowering PSAs, turning potential pity into pride.
- Cast Camaraderie: Sleepovers with Millie Bobby Brown and Noah Schnapp became family lore, strengthening the ensemble’s unbreakable tie.
By 2024, with production on the fifth and final season ramping up, Gaten reflected on growth, crediting Yu for steadying the chaos.
Elizabeth Yu’s Rise: From Modeling to Avatar Icon
Enter Elizabeth Yu, whose 2024 breakout as the cunning Azula in Avatar: The Last Airbender mirrored Gaten’s ascent. Hailing from NYC’s vibrant arts scene, Lizzy Yu started modeling at 18, gracing indie campaigns before pivoting to acting.
Her theater roots in Miss Saigon honed a fierce intensity, landing TV gigs like Bull (2019).
- Breakout Moment: Azula’s firebending ferocity earned critical raves, positioning her as a Netflix force.
- Diverse Roles: From Gotham Knights anti-heroine (2023) to upcoming indies, Lizzy’s range defies typecasting.
Gaten Matarazzo GF Elizabeth’s trajectory adds layers to their shared narrative of ambition and artistry.
Sparks Fly: How Gaten and Lizzy Met in 2022
The love story ignited at a May 2022 J-14 magazine event in LA, where Gaten Matarazzo and Lizzy Yu bonded over mutual theater geekery. What began as panel chit-chat evolved into late-night texts, their first date a low-key hike in the Hollywood Hills.
By summer’s end, they were official, Gaten sharing a subtle Instagram story of sunset silhouettes.
- Early Vibes: Shared playlists blending Broadway and K-pop set the romantic tone.
- Public Tease: A 2022 Tony Awards after-party snap—hand-in-hand—confirmed the buzz.
This serendipitous start wove girlfriend Lizzy Yu into Gaten Matarazzo‘s world seamlessly.
Red Carpet Debuts: Gaten Matarazzo and His Girlfriend’s Glam Moments
Gaten Matarazzo and his girlfriend first stepped out together at the 2022 Emmys, Lizzy in emerald silk complementing Gaten’s velvet tux— a vision of young Hollywood poise.
Subsequent outings, like the 2023 Stranger Things premiere, showcased their ease, Lizzy’s arm looped in his amid flashing bulbs.
- Style Synergy: Coordinated neutrals with pops of color, echoing their effortless chemistry.
- Memorable Poses: Cheeky grins for paps, proving they’re as fun off-duty as on.
These moments elevated Matarazzo and his girlfriend Lizzy to couple goals status.
Behind-the-Scenes Support: Lizzy’s Role in Gaten’s Stranger Things Journey
As season 4 wrapped in 2022, girlfriend Elizabeth Yu became Gaten’s quiet cheerleader, visiting Atlanta sets with care packages of New Jersey snacks.
During 2024‘s season 5 table reads, her encouragement helped him tackle Dustin’s emotional arcs, from loss to leadership.
- Emotional Anchor: Post-filming debriefs over FaceTime, dissecting scenes with actor insight.
- Cast Integration: Welcomed by the crew, Lizzy joined cast hikes, bonding with Finn over script secrets.
Her presence fortified Gaten Matarazzo through the series Stranger Things‘ emotional finale.
2024 Milestones: Avatar Premiere and Couple Travels
2024 dazzled for the pair: Lizzy’s Avatar premiere saw Gaten front-row, his proud clap echoing louder than applause.
They jetted to Japan for cherry blossoms, posting cryptic haikus that fans decoded as love notes.
- Red Carpet Radiance: Gaten’s speech praising Lizzy’s “fire” stole the after-party spotlight.
- Wanderlust Wins: Bali beaches to NYC brunches, their feeds a travelogue of togetherness.
This banner year deepened Gaten Matarazzo GF‘s foundation.
Gaten Matarazzo GF Physical Appearance: Height, Weight, and Vital Stats
Spotlighting the couple’s complementary charms, Gaten Matarazzo GF Elizabeth Yu and Gaten share a fresh-faced allure—his boyish curls pairing with her sleek waves, both exuding youthful energy that lights up screens and streets alike. At 23 and 22, their builds reflect active lifestyles, from set workouts to spontaneous runs that keep them vibrant amid demanding schedules.
| Attribute | Gaten Matarazzo Details | Elizabeth Yu (Lizzy Yu) Details |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m) | 5 ft 4 in (1.63 m) |
| Weight | 140 lb (64 kg) | 115 lb (52 kg) |
| Eye Color | Brown | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown (curly) | Black (straight or wavy) |
| Body Measurements | 36-30-34 inches (Chest-Waist-Hips); Lean, athletic | 32-24-34 inches (Bust-Waist-Hips); Slender, toned |
Gaten’s brown eyes sparkle with Dustin’s mischief, his dark brown curls often tousled for that endearing vibe. Lizzy’s dark brown eyes convey Azula’s intensity, her black hair versatile for roles or red carpets.
- Fitness Flow: Gaten’s theater warm-ups; Lizzy’s yoga for flexibility.
- Signature Looks: His preppy polos, her boho chic— a match made in style heaven.
This physical harmony underscores Gaten Matarazzo and his girlfriend‘s magnetic pull.
Season 5 Wrap: Emotional Farewells and Future Teases
August 2025 marked the fifth and final season‘s wrap, with Gaten’s tearful wrap post thanking the “found family,” Lizzy by his side in Atlanta for the celebratory barbecue.
Co-stars like Finn shared hugs, hinting at spin-offs where Dustin’s arc might continue.
- Heartfelt Tributes: Gaten’s speech on growth, crediting Lizzy for his grounded joy.
- Post-Show Plans: Teased musical theater returns, perhaps a Hadestown run.
The finale’s closure amplified star Gaten Matarazzo‘s evolution.
House Hunting Hijinks: 2025’s New York Adventure with Finn
In a 2025 highlight, Gaten Matarazzo, Finn Wolfhard, and girlfriend Lizzy Yu were spotted house hunting in New York on August 1, browsing lofts in SoHo with laughter echoing down cobblestones.
Paparazzi captured their loved-up trio—Gaten and Lizzy hand-in-hand, Finn scouting quirky kitchens.
- Bromance Boost: Finn Wolfhard and Gaten Matarazzo‘s playful jabs over decor choices went viral.
- Couple Goals: Lizzy’s input on sunlit spaces hinted at future nests.
This outing blended friendship and romance, a snapshot of post-Stranger Things bliss.
Gaten Matarazzo‘s cleidocranial dysplasia advocacy found a partner in Lizzy, who joined his 2024 foundation fundraiser, raising $250,000 for research.
Together, they champion Asian American visibility, Lizzy moderating panels on representation.
- Joint Efforts: Hosted a 2025 virtual Q&A for young actors with disabilities.
- Impact Echo: Their authenticity inspires fans, turning personal stories into collective strength.
This shared purpose enriches girlfriend Elizabeth Yu‘s role in Gaten’s life.
Musical Pursuits: Gaten’s Broadway Dreams and Lizzy’s Backing
Gaten’s vocal prowess, honed in Les Misérables (2014), eyes a 2025 solo EP, with Lizzy co-writing lyrics drawn from their travels.
She attends his open mics incognito, her feedback sharpening his timbre.
- Stage Synergy: Teased duets at charity galas, blending his folk-pop with her R&B edge.
- Inspiration Source: Lizzy’s theater background fuels Gaten’s return to the Great White Way.
Music weaves deeper threads into Gaten Matarazzo GF tapestry.
Fan Favorites: The Internet’s Obsession with Gaten and Lizzy
Social scrolls buzz with #GatenMatarazzoGF edits, from Avatar-Stranger mashups to timeline threads chronicling their 2022 meet-cute.
Fans adore their low-drama vibe, shipping “GateLiz” with fanfic fervor.
- Viral Moments: A 2025 TikTok of them recreating Azula’s fire stance went mega.
- Community Ties: Shoutouts in comments foster a supportive squad.
Their appeal transcends screens, captivating the Stranger Things faithful.
Gaten Matarazzo GF on Social Media
Gaten Matarazzo GF Elizabeth Yu and Gaten curate feeds blending professional peeks with personal poetry, their posts a window to whimsical worlds. In 2025, engagement peaks with season 5 teases and house-hunt hints, drawing millions in likes.
| Platform | Username | Followers (2025) | Profile Link |
| Instagram (Gaten) | @gate (Gaten Matarazzo) | 12 million | instagram.com/gatenmatarazzo |
| TikTok (Gaten) | @gatenmatarazzo | 8 million | tiktok.com/@gatenmatarazzo |
| Instagram (Lizzy) | @lizzyyu | 2.5 million | instagram.com/lizzyyu |
| X (Twitter) (Gaten) | @GatenMatarazzo | 1.8 million | x.com/GatenMatarazzo |
Gaten’s Instagram mixes set selfies with advocacy calls; Lizzy’s spotlights Avatar BTS. TikTok duets their dances, X threads fan theories.
- Couple Content: Subtle tags like heart emojis on stories.
- 2025 Boost: 30% growth post-wrap party posts.
Platforms pulse with their playful synergy.
Post-Stranger Things Horizons: Gaten’s Next Chapter with Lizzy
With Stranger Things archived, 2025 beckons Gaten to indies like The Black Phone sequel (2026), Lizzy eyeing DC auditions.
They prioritize travel—European theater hops—nurturing dreams beyond Hawkins.
- Creative Collabs: Joint short film on young love, scripted in quarantine vibes.
- Balance Blueprint: Therapy check-ins ensure fame doesn’t fracture their foundation.
Future-proofing defines Gaten Matarazzo and his girlfriend‘s path.
Fun Facts about Gaten Matarazzo GF
- Gaten once surprised Lizzy with a custom Dungeons & Dragons campaign where Dustin woos an Azula-inspired elf, complete with fire dice rolls.
- Their first joint tattoo—tiny matching compasses—symbolizes navigating fame’s Upside Down together, inked during a 2023 spontaneous Vegas detour.
- Lizzy taught Gaten basic firebending poses from Avatar, leading to a hilarious 2025 TikTok where he “bends” a candle flame at a dinner date.
- Gaten’s family adores Lizzy’s baking, especially her matcha mochi that rivals New Jersey diner donuts during holiday gatherings.
- The couple shares a ritual of midnight script readings, trading lines from Stranger Things and Avatar in silly accents to unwind.
- In 2024, they volunteered at a NYC youth theater camp, Gaten directing improv while Lizzy choreographed “bending” dances for kids.
- Gaten gifted Lizzy a star named “Azula’s Flame” via the International Star Registry, a celestial nod to her role and their starry-eyed start.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gaten Matarazzo GF
Who is Gaten Matarazzo’s girlfriend?
Elizabeth Yu, aka Lizzy Yu, an actress known for Azula in Avatar: The Last Airbender (2024), dating from 2022.
How did Gaten Matarazzo and Elizabeth Yu meet?
At a J-14 event in May 2022, bonding over theater before their first hike turned romantic.
What is Elizabeth Yu’s age in 2025?
22 years old, born in December 1999, making her a rising Netflix talent alongside Gaten.
Are Gaten Matarazzo and Finn Wolfhard still friends?
Yes, Finn Wolfhard and Gaten Matarazzo remain tight, spotted house hunting in New York with Lizzy in August 2025.
What role does Gaten Matarazzo play in Stranger Things?
Dustin Henderson, the brainy, loyal friend whose arc culminates in the fifth and final season (2025 wrap).
Has Gaten Matarazzo’s girlfriend appeared in Stranger Things?
No, but girlfriend Lizzy Yu supports from sets, joining cast events like the 2022 premiere.
What are Gaten and Lizzy’s 2025 plans?
Traveling Europe for theater inspiration post-Stranger Things, with Gaten eyeing music and Lizzy Marvel auditions.
Conclusion on Gaten Matarazzo GF
Gaten Matarazzo GF Elizabeth Yu weaves a narrative of nurturing love amid the meteoric rise of Stranger Things, from 2016 debuts to 2025‘s heartfelt finale. At 23 and 22, Gaten’s Dustin legacy—bolstered by bonds with Finn, Millie Bobby Brown, and Noah Schnapp—finds tender counterpoint in Lizzy’s Azula fire, their 2025 New York jaunts a promise of chapters unbound by Hawkins.
Through advocacy, artistry, and adventures, Gaten Matarazzo and his girlfriend exemplify young love’s quiet power: resilient, radiant, real. As the Upside Down fades, their story ascends, a beacon for fans cherishing connection over chaos—a romance as enduring as the show’s magic.
