Meet the Australian Actor Who Conquered Hollywood
Dacre Montgomery is an Australian actor best known for his breakout role as Billy Hargrove in Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things and as the Red Ranger in the 2017 Power Rangers reboot. Born November 22, 1994, in Perth, Western Australia, Montgomery has quickly risen from local theater productions to international stardom.
Quick Facts About Dacre Montgomery:
- Full Name: Dacre Kayd Montgomery-Harvey
- Age: 29 years old (born November 22, 1994)
- Height: 5’10” (1.78m)
- Net Worth: $2 million
- Notable Roles: Billy Hargrove (Stranger Things), Red Ranger (Power Rangers), Elvis Presley (Elvis)
- Personal Life: Engaged to model Liv Pollock since December 2023
- Education: Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA)
What makes Montgomery particularly compelling is his journey from an overweight, bullied child who failed his high school drama exams to a globally recognized actor earning $150,000 per episode. His authentic portrayal of complex characters stems from personal experience – he based his Stranger Things performance on his own encounters with bullying.
Beyond acting, Montgomery is also a poet and podcast host, exploring themes of mental health and human psychology through his creative work. His multifaceted talents and genuine vulnerability have made him a standout figure in contemporary entertainment.
As R. Couri Hay, I’ve observed many rising stars steer the entertainment industry, and Dacre Montgomery represents the rare combination of raw talent and authentic storytelling that resonates with both critics and audiences. His ability to transform personal struggles into compelling performances makes him a fascinating subject for our society coverage.
From Perth to Hollywood: The Making of a Star
An Upbringing in the Film Industry
Growing up in Perth, Western Australia, Dacre Montgomery was practically born into the entertainment world. His mother, Judith Barrett-Lennard, and father, Scott Montgomery-Harvey, both worked behind the scenes in Australia’s film industry. This meant young Dacre spent his childhood wandering around movie sets, watching the magic happen from the inside out.
It was this early exposure that planted the acting seed. At just nine years old, Dacre knew he wanted to be in front of the camera instead of behind it. The film sets weren’t just his parents’ workplace – they became his playground and his classroom.
His formal education began at Mount Lawley Senior High School, where he enrolled in their specialist visual and performing arts program. Even as a teenager, Dacre was serious about his craft. He spent extra time honing his skills at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), attending workshops and preparing for what he hoped would be his future.
After high school, Dacre Montgomery took the next logical step and enrolled at WAAPA for their rigorous three-year Bachelor of Arts in Acting program. The academy has a reputation for producing exceptional talent, and Dacre graduated in 2015, armed with the skills and determination to take on Hollywood.
Overcoming Adversity: The Struggles Behind the Success
The path from Perth to global stardom wasn’t exactly a smooth ride for Dacre Montgomery. Behind those captivating performances lies a story of real struggle that would make anyone root for the underdog.
As a child, Dacre was overweight and faced relentless bullying at school. The experience cut deep – so deep that he would later channel those painful memories into his portrayal of Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things. When he was just 12, an agent delivered a brutal reality check: lose weight if you want to make it in this business.
School wasn’t much kinder to his dreams. Dacre failed his high school drama exams – imagine failing the very subject that represents your biggest passion. Add to that his ongoing battles with anxiety and OCD, and you have a young man facing obstacles that would have sent many others running.
The rejection didn’t stop there. Dacre Montgomery auditioned for a full decade before landing his breakthrough role. Ten years of “no’s,” of being told he wasn’t right for the part, of wondering if his classmates at Mount Lawley Senior High School were wrong when they voted him “most likely student to become a Hollywood star.”
He was even fired from a job during this period, adding financial stress to an already challenging situation. But here’s what makes his story so compelling – he never gave up. Every setback became fuel for his determination.
Read his inspiring story in his own words to truly understand the depth of his journey. For those navigating their own career challenges, our strategic planning services can help guide you through difficult transitions.
The Breakout Roles That Defined Dacre Montgomery
Powering Up as the Red Ranger
In 2017, Dacre Montgomery landed the role that would change his life forever: Jason Scott, the Red Ranger in Lionsgate’s Power Rangers reboot. This physically demanding role required extensive preparation that transformed not just his body, but his entire approach to acting.
Working with personal trainer Britten of the WA Institute of Martial Arts, Montgomery underwent an intensive three-hour daily training regimen. The program included martial arts, weight training, boxing, and yoga, accompanied by a strict diet that helped him achieve the superhero physique required for the role.
The physical change was remarkable, but the role’s significance went beyond aesthetics. After a decade of auditions and rejections, landing the Red Ranger represented validation of his perseverance. The film, while receiving mixed reviews with a 5.9 IMDb rating, showcased Montgomery’s ability to carry a major studio production and earned him a Teen Choice Award nomination.
This breakthrough role opened doors that had previously remained closed, proving that his years of struggle had not been in vain. The success of Power Rangers demonstrated Montgomery’s star power and set the stage for even greater opportunities ahead.
The Unforgettable Antagonist: Dacre Montgomery in Stranger Things
Montgomery’s portrayal of Billy Hargrove in Netflix’s Stranger Things catapulted him to international fame and critical acclaim. Joining the series in Season 2, he created one of television’s most complex antagonists – a character who was simultaneously terrifying and sympathetic.
What made his performance particularly powerful was its authenticity. Montgomery drew directly from his own experiences of being bullied, channeling those painful memories into Billy’s aggressive behavior. This personal connection resulted in what critics called a “chilling and guttural yet impossible to look away from” performance that embodied “three fundamental traits to every great onscreen sociopath.”
The audition process itself became legendary in Hollywood circles. Montgomery created a short film for his audition tape and, by his own admission, “may or may not have put on a g-string and danced to ‘Hungry Like a Wolf'” – a bold choice that demonstrated his commitment to the craft and willingness to take creative risks.
His work on Stranger Things earned widespread recognition:
- Screen Actors Guild Award win as part of the ensemble cast
- MTV Movie & TV Award nomination
- Praise from The New York Times, which called his acting “daring”
- A substantial salary increase to $150,000 per episode by Season 3
The role’s impact extended beyond awards and accolades. Montgomery’s nuanced portrayal of Billy helped redefine what television antagonists could be, showing that even the most seemingly irredeemable characters could possess depth and humanity.
Exploring a Diverse Filmography
Beyond his signature roles, Dacre Montgomery has built an impressive and diverse filmography that showcases his range as an actor. His portrayal of Elvis Presley in Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis (2022) earned critical praise and demonstrated his ability to embody iconic figures with authenticity and respect.
In The Broken Hearts Gallery (2020), Montgomery showed his romantic comedy chops, while Better Watch Out (2017) allowed him to explore the thriller genre. His work in The True History of the Kelly Gang further cemented his reputation as a versatile performer capable of handling complex, historically-based characters.
Other notable projects include:
- A Few Less Men (2017) – Comedy
- In Vitro (2019) – Drama
- Guilty Creatures (2020) – Thriller
- Spider & Jessie (2023) – Independent film
- Went Up the Hill (2024) – Drama
Montgomery has also expanded his role behind the camera, serving as producer on several projects and directing music videos, including work for the band Make Them Suffer. This multi-faceted approach to filmmaking demonstrates his commitment to storytelling in all its forms.
His diverse portfolio reflects a strategic approach to career building, avoiding typecasting while building credibility across genres. For professionals looking to develop similar strategic approaches to their careers, our branding services can help create compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences.
Beyond the Screen: Poetry, Podcasts, and Personal Life
The Poetic Voice of ‘DKMH’
In July 2019, Dacre Montgomery revealed a completely unexpected side of his artistic personality. He launched ‘DKMH,’ a deeply personal podcast that showcased his talent for beat poetry and gave fans an intimate look into his inner world.
The podcast name itself reflects Montgomery’s initials – a simple yet personal touch that immediately signals this is his space. Unlike his scripted roles, ‘DKMH’ allows him to speak entirely in his own voice, exploring themes that matter most to him.
What makes this podcast particularly compelling is Montgomery’s willingness to dive deep into difficult topics. He openly discusses his struggles with OCD and uses the platform as a genuine creative outlet for processing complex emotions. The beat poetry format gives him freedom to explore what he calls “human drives” – those fundamental motivations and conflicts that shape all of us.
Montgomery’s approach to self-expression through ‘DKMH’ is refreshingly authentic. In an industry often criticized for surface-level content, he’s chosen to share his most vulnerable thoughts and experiences. This raw honesty has resonated deeply with listeners who appreciate hearing from the real person behind the characters.
The podcast represents Montgomery’s evolution from actor to multi-dimensional artist. It’s where he can address mental health openly, without the constraints of character or script. Listen to his podcast ‘DKMH’ on Apple Podcasts to experience this unique blend of performance and personal reflection.
Love and Partnership: Dacre Montgomery’s Relationship
Behind every successful star is often a story of love and partnership that keeps them grounded. For Dacre Montgomery, that story begins with a modern romance that started on social media.
In 2017, Montgomery connected with Liv Pollock, an Australian model, through social media platforms. What began as digital interactions quickly blossomed into something much deeper. Their meeting on social media proved that genuine connections can form even in our increasingly digital world.
Liv Pollock has built her own successful modeling career while providing unwavering support for Montgomery’s journey to stardom. Their long-term relationship since 2017 has weathered the unique challenges that come with sudden fame and international recognition.
Montgomery has been refreshingly open about how much Pollock means to him. In heartfelt social media posts, he’s described her as the “backbone” of his life and career. This level of appreciation speaks to the strength of their supportive partnership – one where both individuals maintain their own identities while lifting each other up.
The couple reached a beautiful milestone in December 2023 when they announced their engagement. The news delighted fans who had followed their journey from early Instagram interactions to red carpet appearances together.
What makes their relationship particularly inspiring is their approach to privacy and authenticity. While they share glimpses of their life together, they’ve maintained healthy boundaries that protect their relationship from excessive public scrutiny. In an era of oversharing, their balanced approach feels both refreshing and mature.
Their partnership serves as a reminder that even in the spotlight, genuine love and mutual respect can create a foundation strong enough to support any dream.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dacre Montgomery
What is Dacre Montgomery’s height and other physical attributes?
Dacre Montgomery stands at 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) tall and weighs approximately 170 lbs (77 kg). His athletic build is no accident – he’s worked incredibly hard to develop the physique needed for physically demanding roles like the Red Ranger in Power Rangers.
His commitment to fitness shows in his measurements: a 42-inch chest, 33-inch waist, and 15-inch biceps. These stats reflect the serious training regimen he underwent, including martial arts, boxing, and yoga, along with strict dietary discipline.
Montgomery’s striking blue eyes and brown hair have become part of his signature look on screen. Combined with his buffed physique and intense screen presence, these features help him command attention whether he’s playing a superhero or a complex antagonist.
Born on November 22, Dacre Montgomery is a Scorpio, and honestly, the intensity associated with that zodiac sign seems to match perfectly with the depth he brings to his performances.
What challenges did Dacre Montgomery face in his early career?
The road to stardom wasn’t easy for Dacre Montgomery. As a child, he was overweight and faced relentless bullying at school – experiences that were painful but later helped him create authentic portrayals of complex characters like Billy Hargrove.
When he was just 12 years old, an agent bluntly told him to lose weight if he wanted to succeed in acting. That’s a harsh reality for any kid to face, but it didn’t crush his dreams.
Academically, things weren’t smooth either. Montgomery actually failed his high school drama exams – imagine failing the subject that would eventually make you famous! He also struggled with anxiety and OCD, conditions that made navigating the competitive entertainment world even more challenging.
Perhaps most remarkably, Dacre Montgomery auditioned for a full decade before landing a major role. That’s ten years of hearing “no,” facing rejection, and wondering if his dreams would ever come true. During this period, he was even fired from a job, adding financial stress to his emotional struggles.
These experiences, while difficult, ultimately became the foundation for his authentic performances. His ability to draw from real pain and change is what makes his acting so compelling.
Who is Dacre Montgomery engaged to?
Dacre Montgomery is engaged to Australian model Liv Pollock, and their love story is pretty sweet. They met through social media in 2017 – a very modern romance that started in the digital age and blossomed into something real.
Pollock has built her own successful modeling career while being incredibly supportive of Montgomery’s journey to stardom. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he described her as the “backbone” of his life and career, crediting her with helping him handle the challenges of sudden fame.
The couple announced their engagement in December 2023, much to the delight of fans who had been following their relationship journey. What makes their partnership particularly refreshing is how they’ve maintained their individual identities while supporting each other’s dreams.
They’ve also been smart about privacy, sharing glimpses of their life together without oversharing. In an era where celebrity relationships often play out entirely in public, Montgomery and Pollock have found a healthy balance that seems to be working beautifully for them.
Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of a Modern Star
Dacre Montgomery’s story reads like a Hollywood script – except it’s real, and that’s what makes it so powerful. From that overweight kid getting bullied in Perth to the confident actor gracing red carpets worldwide, his journey proves that our biggest struggles often become our greatest strengths.
What makes Montgomery truly special isn’t just his acting chops. He can terrify you as Billy Hargrove one minute and charm you as the Red Ranger the next. But it’s his willingness to be vulnerable that sets him apart. When celebrities often hide behind perfect facades, Montgomery opens up about his anxiety, his OCD, and his failures. That takes real courage.
His creative range continues to surprise fans. One day he’s channeling Elvis Presley on the big screen, the next he’s sharing deeply personal poetry on his DKMH podcast. This isn’t just diversification – it’s authentic artistic expression from someone who refuses to be put in a box.
The resilience and determination that carried him through a decade of rejections now fuel his multifaceted career. Montgomery has shown that success isn’t just about talent – it’s about refusing to give up when everything seems impossible. His story resonates because we’ve all felt like that kid who failed his drama exams at some point.
From on-screen villain to real-life inspiration, Dacre Montgomery represents something rare in modern entertainment: genuine authenticity. His engagement to Liv Pollock, his openness about mental health, and his commitment to meaningful creative work all paint a picture of someone who hasn’t lost himself in the glitz and glamour.
As Montgomery continues to evolve as an artist, his future projects promise to showcase even more dimensions of his talent. Whether he’s acting, writing, or exploring new creative territories, one thing remains constant – his commitment to truth in storytelling.
Dacre Montgomery has become a compelling figure in modern pop culture not because he’s perfect, but because he’s perfectly human. His journey reminds us that our scars can become our superpowers, and that the most interesting people are often those who’ve fought their way back from the edge.
At R. Couri Hay Columns, we recognize that Montgomery’s appeal goes far beyond his Hollywood success. He’s become a voice for anyone who’s ever felt different, struggled with mental health, or wondered if their dreams were too big. That’s the kind of cultural impact that lasts.
Learn how we help shape public narratives with our publicity services to understand how strategic communication can amplify authentic stories like Montgomery’s, creating lasting impact in our cultural conversation.