Who Played Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things
The character Billy Hargrove in the Netflix series Stranger Things was portrayed by actor Dacre Montgomery. Montgomery, an Australian performer, first appeared as the antagonistic older brother of Max Mayfield in the second season. The role required a physically intense performance that blended menace with vulnerability, and it became one of the most discussed characters in the series. Netflix renewed the show for multiple seasons, expanding Montgomery's screen time across later installments.
Dacre Montgomery was born in New Zealand and raised in Perth, Australia. He studied at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts before landing the Stranger Things role. The character's arc, including his connection to the Upside Down and his troubled relationship with his mother, gave Montgomery complex material to work with. His portrayal earned him a global fan base and increased visibility in the entertainment industry.
Billy Hargrove's Story Arc and Fate in the Series
In Stranger Things season two, Billy is introduced as the stepbrother of Max Mayfield and a locally feared figure in Hawkins. He is later revealed to be a host for the Mind Flayer, a powerful entity from the Upside Down. This possession drives his violent behavior and ties him directly to the supernatural threats facing the town. His storyline culminates in a sacrifice that marks a pivotal moment for the Hawkins group.
The show's creators used Billy's arc to explore themes of manipulation, family dysfunction, and redemption. His death in season two remains one of the most memorable moments in the series. The character's influence persists in later seasons through the impact his death has on Max and the broader Hawkins community. Forbes has noted how the series balances large ensemble casts with tightly written individual character stories like Billy's.
Dacre Montgomery's Career After Stranger Things
After Stranger Things, Dacre Montgomery continued acting in both television and film. He starred in the Netflix series Wellington Paranormal, a spinoff of the mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows. Montgomery also pursued music and released his own singles, showcasing a creative range beyond acting. His public social media presence and interviews have kept him connected to the Stranger Things fan base.
Montgomery has spoken about the physical and emotional demands of playing Billy Hargrove, noting the preparation required for the role's intense scenes. He has worked with directors and producers across multiple projects, building a diverse resume in the Australian and international entertainment markets. Screen Daily has covered the growing international profiles of actors from genre series like Stranger Things. Deadline has also reported on the career trajectories of breakout TV actors from major streaming hits.