The Billy Hargrove Hangover
The final credits of Stranger Things roll, but the engine of that blue Camaro still echoes in your mind. The image is seared into pop culture: the tight jeans, the singular earring, the volatile charisma of Billy Hargrove. For many, that performance was a lightning strike, making it almost impossible to imagine the actor, Dacre Montgomery, as anyone else.
This phenomenon is common when a character becomes iconic. The actor's identity merges with the role, leaving us wondering what else they are capable of. If you're searching for what to watch after Stranger Things and want to see more from this compelling talent, you're in the right place. It's time to look beyond Hawkins, Indiana.
Feeling Stuck on Billy? Why It's Hard to See Past an Iconic Role
Let’s take a deep breath here. It is completely okay that you can't shake his performance as Billy. That isn't a failure of imagination; it's a testament to the emotional connection you formed and the sheer power of the acting. When an actor pours that much into a role, it leaves an imprint on us.
Our emotional anchor, Buddy, always reminds us to validate the feeling first. He’d say, “That attachment isn't just about the character; it's about the skill it took to make you feel so deeply.” It proves how incredibly effective Dacre Montgomery was at bringing that complex, wounded character to life.
Seeing him as one of many talented Australian actors in Hollywood who can embody such a role makes the experience richer, not smaller. Your loyalty to that character is a beautiful thing—it's the 'Golden Intent' behind your curiosity to see who the actor is beyond the mullet and the rage.
Exploring the Actor's Range: From Superhero to Romantic Lead
Luna, our resident mystic, views an actor's career not as a straight line, but as a series of symbolic sheddings. “Each role,” she’d muse, “is like a different phase of the moon, revealing a new face, a new light.” To truly appreciate the Dacre Montgomery acting range, we have to look at the different archetypes he has explored.
Moving from the chaotic, shadowed energy of Billy Hargrove required a significant shift. Think of it as stepping out of a storm and into the sunlight. His role in the Power Rangers movie represents the classic Hero archetype—a leader forged under pressure, a stark contrast to Billy's destructive tendencies.
Then, there is the Lover archetype, seen in The Broken Hearts Gallery. This role shows a softer, more grounded energy, proving his capacity for warmth and gentle humor. Even his smaller but crucial role as director Steve Binder in the Elvis movie shows another facet—the creative visionary. As his IMDb filmography shows, Dacre Montgomery has deliberately chosen projects that allow him to explore these different symbolic skins.
Your Dacre Montgomery Watchlist: Where to Start Tonight
Alright, enough feeling, it's time for a plan. Our strategist, Pavo, believes in converting curiosity into action. “Don’t just wonder about his range,” she’d say, “strategize your viewing. Here is the move.” Below is a curated watchlist to expand your understanding of the Dacre Montgomery filmography.
Step 1: For a Dose of Action & Nostalgia
Power Rangers (2017): See Dacre Montgomery as Jason Scott, the Red Ranger. This role showcases his leadership qualities and ability to anchor a major blockbuster. It’s the perfect palate cleanser after the darkness of Billy Hargrove.
Step 2: For a Heartwarming Rom-Com Vibe
The Broken Hearts Gallery (2020): In this charming film, he plays Nick, a cynical but kind-hearted hotelier. This is where you see his comedic timing and romantic lead potential shine. It’s proof that Dacre Montgomery can be the guy you root for, not just the guy you fear.
Step 3: For a Glimpse into a Musical Legend
Elvis (2022): While not the lead, his role as innovative TV director Steve Binder in the Elvis movie is pivotal. He portrays the creative force who helped shape Elvis Presley's iconic '68 Comeback Special. It demonstrates a more mature and intellectually driven performance from Dacre Montgomery.
Step 4: For an Early Look at His Darker Side
Better Watch Out (2016): If you want to see a pre-Stranger Things role that hints at his ability to play complex and unsettling characters, this horror-comedy is it. It’s a sharp, surprising performance that rounds out the viewing experience and solidifies the talent of Dacre Montgomery.
FAQ
1. Is Dacre Montgomery returning for Stranger Things 5?
While Billy Hargrove died in Season 3, Dacre Montgomery made a brief cameo in Season 4 as a vision. There has been no official confirmation of his return for the final season, but fans remain hopeful for a flashback or another vision sequence.
2. What is Dacre Montgomery's most famous role besides Billy Hargrove?
Besides his iconic role in Stranger Things, he is well-known for playing Jason Scott, the Red Ranger, in the 2017 reboot of Power Rangers. He also gained positive attention for his role as Nick in the romantic comedy The Broken Hearts Gallery.
3. Is Dacre Montgomery Australian?
Yes, Dacre Montgomery was born in Perth, Western Australia. He is one of many prominent Australian actors who have found significant success in Hollywood.
4. Why did people think Dacre Montgomery quit acting?
Rumors about him quitting Hollywood circulated after he took a step back to focus on other creative pursuits, including his podcast "DKMH," which features his own beat poetry. However, he has not quit acting and continues to work on film projects.
References
imdb.com — Dacre Montgomery - IMDb