Joel Montgrand, a well-known Canadian actor, skillfully brings to life the character of Eddie Qavvik, a local musher, in the highly acclaimed series ‘True Detective: Night Country’ In addition to this outstanding part, he has demonstrated his exceptional talent in well-known films such as “Avatar,” where he played Hakoda, The Last Airbender, Altered Carbon, Beans, and many others. ‘True Detective: Night Country’ is an engrossing series that goes deep into the complexities of police investigations, revealing the hidden personal and professional secrets of everyone involved, whether they work within or outside of the law. It was an honor to speak with Joel about his role in the series and his incredible experience as an actor.

Joel admits that his journey into acting was entirely unintentional. It all started when he chose to audition for a high school musical, primarily because his peers in grade 12 were doing the same. Before this, Joel was an introverted, ignored kid who preferred to blend in. However, his time in the shadows wasn’t long. Joel unwillingly surrendered to peer pressure and joined a group of singers, expecting a few laughs, detention, and eventually being forgotten. To his astonishment, his teacher, Ms. Moon, saw his talent. “I got the lead role in the show ‘Jesus Christ Super Star,” Montgrand added.

“I continued to do community theater. I knew I needed to do it, but I didn’t know how deeply the acting bug got in there,” stated Montgrand. He continued to do theater until 2011, when he decided to move to Vancouver. During that time, Joel was doing a lot of backend jobs and didn’t care if he missed work to do theater. “Whatever I could do to pay the bills and things like that, Someone said to me, “You’re good at acting; why don’t you take it seriously?” One day I went into my current agent’s office and auditioned for her on the spot, and I booked 4 out of 5 of my auditions,” said Montgrand.

Joel was surprised to discover that he had a passion for performing. During his twenties, he went on a number of trips, unaware that community theater and substantial travel were incompatible. Montgrand reflected on the period, saying, “I was constantly moving from one country to another, attempting to navigate my path in the world as a fearless young man.” Joel has lived in several countries, including Korea, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and others. In Korea, he spent three years teaching English.

Joel is now working on the television series True Detective: Night Country, which follows an investigation into the disappearance of children. This show looks into the depths of the human condition, frequently examining the more evil aspects of society. Notably, each season is self-contained, allowing viewers to jump in at any point without losing out on important plot developments.

Joel’s performance as a musher in the popular television series has captured the public. Some attribute this to his great acting ability, while others praise his attractive features. “Qavvik is a bootlegger because they live in a damp town and are given a ration of alcohol every month. Which runs out, and people want something else. So, Qavvik skirts the law and has become quite lovable as the series goes on,” Montgrand explained.

Joel gave a detailed description of the content of the television series “True Detective,” which delves into the supernatural. The show’s capacity to tackle many perspectives has piqued the audience’s interest. They are left wondering if the events in the series are the consequence of otherworldly forces or psychological causes. The enigmatic aspect of these events continues to attract audiences.

Follow Joel on Instagram (@joelmontgrand) to hear stories about his cultural heritage. And catch up on the latest episodes of the newest season of True Detective: Night County on MAX.

Photography Credit: Kristinecofskyphotography