‘Stranger Things’ star explains controversial prank show

Gaten Matarazzo —INSTAGRAM

Gaten Matarazzo, aka the geeky kid Dustin from “Stranger Things,” posted on Instagram a clarification video for a new hidden-camera show that got bashed on social media for its “insensitive” concept.

The teen actor is host and executive producer of Netflix’s upcoming “Prank Encounters,” which, according to its press release, will pull a practical joke on “two complete strangers who think they’re starting their first day at a new job.”

In the video he uploaded recently, Matarazzo said, “I just want to let everybody know that those who participated were fully aware that this was going to be a one-day gig, going in. Nobody was promised a part-time or full-time job, and everybody was compensated.

“Those who did participate had an amazing time, though the pranks are scary and over-the-top.”

The 16-year-old actor, who previously starred in a Broadway production of “Les Misérables,” added, “Once all is said and done, everyone was laughing and having a great time, [and] left the set happy and satisfied. I appreciate your concern for the [well-being of these] people, and we hope that you have as much fun watching the show as we did making it.”

“Prank Encounters” is an eight-episode series that will be launched later this year.—OLIVER PULUMBARIT