‘Stranger Things’ Star Reveals Why He’ll Be Wearing Sneakers on the Red Carpet

It is the standard for award shows like the Emmys to have people stepping out in glamorous attire when they hit the red carpet. Your favorite stars – young and old – can look quite dapper.

Tonight, when the kids from Stranger Things make their appearance, one of its stars will be making a very special statement. Gaten Matarazzo, who plays Dustin in the series, will be sporting a fine pair of sneakers with his dressy duds. Don’t snicker, it’s all for a great cause!

If you watch the show, then you’re familiar with hearing about cleidocranial dysplasia, a condition that the character Dustin shares with Gaten in real life. Gaten’s sneakers have the logo for CCD Smiles, a charity organization that works to raise money for those who also have cleidocranial dysplasia.

He hopes to raise awareness (and funds) so that others can receive access to medical treatments. According to the non-profit’s website, CCD is a rare genetic disorder that occurs in one in every million births.

Among the condition’s characteristics are failure to lose baby teeth, absence of collarbones, fragile bones, crowded teeth, and defects in the skeletal structure. Surgeries are extremely expensive and often not covered by health insurance.

In his short video message about Emmys gear, Gaten says he is excited about representing for his organization. Besides comfort, we can’t think of a better reason for him to rock his stylish kicks!

Jump below to hear Gaten tell the Today show about CCD Smiles and hear how he and the rest of the cast are prepping for the awards!

Are you looking forward to watching the Stranger Things cast on the Emmys tonight? Do you know about cleidocranial dysplasia and CCD Smiles? What red carpet looks are your favorite?