HOLR is chatting with Joel D. Montgrand, who stars in HBO’s “True Detective: Night Country” and Netflix’s live-action adaptation of “Avatar: The Last Airbender.”
Get to know breakout star Joel D. Montgrand, as he sits down to chat with HOLR about his latest roles to date- those of which include starring in HBO’s “True Detective: Night Country” and Netflix’s live-action take on “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” From how he got his start in the entertainment industry to what’s next for the rising star, Joel, who is an indigenous actor and podcast host, is diving into his “life and career-changing” opportunities and how they have shaped who he is as an actor, today.
Talk to us about how you got your start in the entertainment industry.
Professionally? It was 10 years ago, that I was given a lead by a mutual acquaintance with my now agent. He told me I was talented and should do more than community theatre and that he went to school with someone he knew was working as an agent now. Armed with this info I showed up and walked into their office, there was no one at the desk, so I went in and knocked on the first door I saw and she was like “Hello?” I introduced myself, and said I was looking for an agent and she said, okay, where’s your resume and headshots, and I was like “Oh, I need those?” I had no clue about how to get into this business. Thankfully she took a chance on me and told me to get some headshots done. I spent the only 500 dollars I had to my name and got them done and wonder of wonders, I booked 4 out of the first 5 auditions I had and managed to pull myself out of poverty. It was quite a trip at the start.
You play Eddie Qavvik in the fourth season of HBO’s hit series “True Detective: Night Country.” Talk to us about this experience and what it was like starring alongside Jodie Foster and screen partner, Kali Reis.
It was life and career-changing. I felt so lucky to finally be given a character I could really sink my teeth into and showcase my abilities. Beyond theatre, I was never really given that chance so I knew I wasn’t going to blow it. Also, I was really lucky to have a scene partner that I was able to have such great chemistry with. Kali is thoughtful and driven. I appreciate people who know how to put in work, and honestly, she has a tremendous work ethic, you don’t get to be a champion of the world without it. Jodi is a champ in the acting world too, so it’s an inspiration to see her process. I admire all of them a lot.
We’re excited to hear that you also play Hakoda in Netflix’s live-action adaptation of “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” which premieres soon on February 22, 2024. Talk to us about this project.
Now that it’s out I cannot wait to see what the future holds! I hope they get more seasons so I get a chance to form this character and show his amazing journey. He’s a total badass.
What are some of the other projects you’ve worked on to date that you can share more about?
There’s a movie called “Beans” that I was in that really started my career. I think it’s probably the most important story I’ve been a part of since it is based on real events that happened in Canada in 1990. There was an Indigenous uprising because a town called Oka tried to destroy a burial ground so they could expand a golf course. It sounds like a cartoonish evil plot that couldn’t happen now, but it did and things like it still do. If it wasn’t for that movie I would not have had the chance to be in The Last Airbender or True Detective. The work speaks and grows with each job.
What are some of your favorite things to do in your spare time?
I enjoy gaming, hanging with my partner and cat, cycling, reading all the various things on Reddit, and long walks on the beach. Also, beer. But I can’t have as much as I used to, Hakoda doesn’t have a beer belly.
What’s next for you?
I have a movie coming out that’s being shopped around called “Sweet Summer Pow Wow” I play the uncle trying to help his nephew find love and learn how to be a man. I’m really proud of that movie, it’s got a lot of heart and I hope it’s out soon. Beyond that, you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled.
Published by HOLR Magazine.
Image credits: @kristinecofskyphotography