As anticipation builds for the release of Stranger Things 5 this November, fans are revisiting the backgrounds of the series’ young cast. A lesser-known fact is that Gaten Matarazzo, Sadie Sink, and Caleb McLaughlin all worked on Broadway simultaneously, though in separate productions, before joining forces on Netflix’s hit show.
Before portraying Dustin Henderson, Max Mayfield, and Lucas Sinclair, these actors developed their craft on Broadway. Gaten Matarazzo, known for his role as Dustin, appeared in Les Misérables, showcasing his vocal ability and stage presence. Sadie Sink, who plays Max, starred in Annie, bringing energy and emotional depth to the character, helping establish her reputation as a rising talent. Caleb McLaughlin, portraying Lucas, performed as Simba in The Lion King, demonstrating strong acting skills and an ability to convey nuanced emotions.
While performing in separate productions, the trio was simultaneously immersed in the rigors and demands of Broadway, learning professional discipline at a young age.
Their Broadway experience shaped their approach to acting on screen. Live theater requires precise timing, adaptability, and the ability to react in real-time to audience feedback. Sadie Sink explained in interviews that “performing in front of a live audience really helps you develop a sense of timing and presence that’s hard to replicate in film.” These skills have translated into their work on Stranger Things, particularly in scenes that require naturalistic interactions amid supernatural events.
The shared professional environment also contributed to their chemistry as co-stars. Having experienced the pressures and challenges of performing on stage, Matarazzo, Sink, and McLaughlin developed resilience, discipline, and a strong work ethic that have carried into their roles in Hawkins. This familiarity and shared commitment enhance the authenticity of the friendships depicted on screen.
Transitioning from stage to screen, the actors applied lessons learned from live performance to television. The demands of Broadway—projecting emotion, timing dialogue, and engaging with complex material—prepared them for the intensity of Stranger Things’ storylines, which combine everyday adolescence with supernatural threats. The discipline gained from live theater allows them to navigate challenging scenes while maintaining believable character reactions.
Their simultaneous Broadway tenure underscores the level of experience and dedication they brought to the series at a young age. It also highlights how foundational training in theater can support success in film and television.
As fans prepare for the final season, reflecting on Matarazzo, Sink, and McLaughlin’s Broadway beginnings provides insight into the talent and effort that underpin their performances. From the stage to Hawkins, their professional journeys illustrate the depth of skill and commitment involved in creating the immersive world of Stranger Things.
