Gaten Matarazzo shot to fame with Stranger Things- much like all the other young actors in the Netflix original. The 22-year-old became the internet's favorite child in the weeks since the show first graced the screens, alongside now-acclaimed stars like Millie Bobby Brown. However, one thing that sets Matarazzo apart from the rest, aside from his contagious smile, of course, is his refreshing honesty about his life as an actor. He has been living the life of an actor since he was seven- surrounded by cameras, bright lights, and a lot of pressure. 

During his time on Stranger Things, Matarazzo had the chance to work with some of the industry veterans. And recently, he gave a detailed look into how he had handled the pressure and intimidation of working with such experienced professionals.

Gaten Matarazzo joined In the Envelope: The Actor's Podcast for an insightful conversation about his acting career. He admitted that working with experienced actors can make one feel "hyper-concerned about being embarrassed". However, he pointed out that this should not “distract” one from doing their job. And the key to “breaking down the intimidation factor” is, in fact, a very basic thing- "Know your lines". 

Matarazzo advised finding a way to funnel that "nervous energy" from working with big names into the performance. He then went on to share his mixed feelings about choosing to act as a career. He has often been “hyper-worried” about whether this career would last long or offer financial stability. And it seems, he still feels that way, now that Stranger Things is coming to an end with the fifth and final season. 

"Intense and beautiful"- Gaten Matarazzo Hints at How 'Stranger Things' 5’s Finale Episode Will Tie It All Together

Last year, Gaten Matarazzo shared his anxieties about Stranger Things coming to an end and what it might mean for his career. 

No matter how much it hurts to say goodbye to the beloved Netflix show, somewhere, we can all agree it is about time to wrap up Stranger Things with an epic finale. And just like the fans, the cast is also dealing with mixed, bittersweet emotions about the show’s end. Last year, on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Matarazzo opened up about what has been unsettling him about the show’s conclusion. 

Matarazzo acknowledged that Stranger Things' end would automatically mean that he would have to step back into the unpredictability of freelancing. "There's like a deep fear that's been like – not only has it been amazing but it's been like pretty great job security,” the Honor Society star said. Nonetheless, given that he is keeping all his options open- not only as an actor but also by winning hearts with his charismatic voice- fans might just see a new side of the rising star after Stranger Things wraps up.

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What do you think about Gaten Matarazzo's interview? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!