Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo is set to make his West End debut in a modern revival of the rock musical Rent, celebrating its 30th anniversary since its Broadway premiere. This marks a significant moment for the actor, who has already achieved global fame through his portrayal of Dustin Henderson in the Netflix series. However, Matarazzo's journey in the performing arts began on the Broadway stage, where he has performed since childhood. Now, he takes on the role of Mark, the narrator and a documentary filmmaker, in this iconic musical. The revival promises to be a thrilling experience, directed by Luke Sheppard, who recently won an Olivier Award for his work on Paddington: The Musical. This production is a testament to the enduring power of Rent, a show that has tackled social taboos and given voice to marginalized communities, particularly during the HIV/Aids crisis of the 1980s. The musical's original composer, Jonathan Larson, whose life was immortalized in the Oscar-nominated film Tick Tick... Boom!, would have been proud to see his work continue to resonate with new generations of performers and audiences alike. Matarazzo's transition from a child actor on Broadway to a global star on Netflix showcases his versatility and talent, making him an exciting addition to the West End cast. The revival is set to open at London's Duke of York Theatre on September 26, 2026, and is sure to be a memorable event for fans of both the original musical and the rising star.
