Stranger Things: Gaten Matarazzo praises Joe Keery and their friendship
Gaten Matarazzo compares Dustin & Steve to Dustin & Eddie in Stranger Things and reflects on his relationship with Joe Keery and Joseph Quinn.
Since its release on Netflix, Stranger Things has made a lasting impression thanks to its characters and their relationships. Among the most beloved dynamics is the one between Dustin Henderson, played by Gaten Matarazzo, and Steve Harrington, portrayed by Joe Keery, which has become a key element of the series. In season 4, Dustin’s bond with Eddie Munson, played by Joseph Quinn, also introduced an important new relationship for the character. But which dynamic does the actor prefer? He answers!
Stranger Things: Dustin & Steve or Dustin & Eddie? Gaten Matarazzo answers
During the panel at Stranger Fanmeet 9 in Paris, Gaten Matarazzo was asked about his favorite on-screen relationship. His answer is clear:
“When people ask me if I preferred the relationship between Dustin and Steve or Dustin and Eddie, I say Steve. Of course, I can’t answer otherwise. Especially because I spent much more time with Joe Keery.”
A meaningful collaboration with Joseph Quinn
Gaten Matarazzo still made sure to highlight the contribution of Eddie’s character and his actor:
“Working with Joseph Quinn was also great, he was really a very good addition to the series. He brought a lot of positive energy and really helped Dustin grow, which was necessary for his character.”
Eddie Munson’s introduction indeed left a strong impression in season 4, bringing a new dynamic and contributing to Dustin’s development.
A unique chemistry between Gaten Matarazzo and Joe Keery
While Dustin and Eddie were appreciated by fans, the relationship between Dustin and Steve remains special to the actor:
“But with Joe Keery, everything was just so familiar. I mean, we worked almost exclusively together for four seasons. In a way, we ended up knowing what the other was going to do and how before it even happened.”
This chemistry is clearly visible on screen and plays a major role in the duo’s popularity.
A friendship beyond the series
Beyond filming, Gaten Matarazzo also spoke about a strong personal connection:
“There was a great chemistry between us, which made Joe become a very close friend. Even today, we don’t live very far from each other and it’s easy to see each other. I love him.”
He concludes by emphasizing how natural this connection remains:
“And I think that if we worked together again, it would be hard not to become Dustin and Steve again, it happens so instinctively.”
Over the seasons, the relationship between Dustin and Steve has become one of the most iconic in Stranger Things. While new dynamics like the one with Eddie have enriched the story, the series continues to rely on these strong character bonds to shape its narrative.
Go watch the full video on our YouTube channel !