Barry Keoghan's Journey In 13 Reasons Why: The Rising Star's Breakthrough Role

Karlie Marvin 12 May 2025

When it comes to Netflix hits, 13 Reasons Why is one of those shows that left an indelible mark on pop culture. But behind the gripping storylines and emotional performances lies a lesser-known talent named Barry Keoghan. The Irish actor may not be a household name yet, but his role as Monty de la Cruz in the series was nothing short of unforgettable. So, what exactly makes Barry Keoghan stand out in this iconic series? Let’s dive into the world of Barry Keoghan and explore how his portrayal of Monty became a pivotal moment in his career.

Barry Keoghan, the guy who plays Monty de la Cruz in 13 Reasons Why, has this raw intensity that makes you sit up and take notice. You might not know his name right off the bat, but once you see him on screen, it’s impossible to forget. His performance is layered, complex, and so real that it adds another layer of depth to an already intense show. It’s like he brings something unique to the table that not many actors can pull off.

Now, if you’re thinking, “Who’s Monty de la Cruz?” let me break it down for you. Monty is one of those characters who’s shrouded in mystery throughout the series. He’s charismatic, enigmatic, and kinda scary at times. And Barry Keoghan nails every single aspect of this character. From his piercing gaze to his unsettling charm, Keoghan’s portrayal leaves a lasting impression on anyone who watches the show.

Biography: Who Is Barry Keoghan?
Barry Keoghan's Role in 13 Reasons Why
Early Career and Breakthrough
Unique Acting Style and Techniques
Monty de la Cruz: The Character Unveiled
Impact on 13 Reasons Why's Narrative
Rise to Fame Through Netflix
Criticism and Praise for His Performance
Future Projects and Aspirations
Final Thoughts: Barry Keoghan's Legacy

Biography: Who Is Barry Keoghan?

Before we deep-dive into his role in 13 Reasons Why, let’s talk about the man behind the scenes. Barry Keoghan is an Irish actor born on June 24, 1993, in Dublin, Ireland. Growing up in a city known for its vibrant arts scene, Barry found his passion for acting early on. He attended St. Andrew’s College in Dublin, where he honed his craft through school plays and local theater productions. But what really sets Barry apart is his ability to transform into any character he takes on, no matter how complex or challenging.

Personal Life and Background

Here’s a quick glance at Barry Keoghan’s personal life:

Full Name	Barry Keoghan
Date of Birth	June 24, 1993
Place of Birth	Dublin, Ireland
Profession	Actor
Education	St. Andrew’s College, Dublin

Barry’s journey from a young theater enthusiast to a globally recognized actor is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication to his craft and willingness to take risks have paved the way for some truly remarkable performances.

Barry Keoghan's Role in 13 Reasons Why

Okay, let’s get to the good stuff—Barry Keoghan’s role as Monty de la Cruz. In 13 Reasons Why, Monty is this mysterious figure whose actions play a crucial role in the unfolding drama. He’s not your typical villain; there’s a lot more to him than meets the eye. And Barry Keoghan brings that complexity to life in a way that’s both captivating and unsettling.

What Makes Monty So Compelling?

Monty’s character is a mix of charm, manipulation, and vulnerability. He’s the kind of guy who can make you feel uneasy, yet you can’t help but be drawn to him. Barry Keoghan’s portrayal captures all these nuances perfectly. Here are a few things that make Monty such a fascinating character:

His ability to manipulate situations and people
A mysterious past that slowly unravels
A darker side that’s both intriguing and terrifying

Early Career and Breakthrough

Barry Keoghan’s career didn’t just happen overnight. He started out in smaller roles, gradually building a reputation as a versatile actor. One of his early breakthroughs came with the film “The Killing of a Sacred Deer,” where he played a chillingly calm and calculating teenager. That role put him on the radar of many Hollywood directors, including the creators of 13 Reasons Why.

Key Milestones in Barry's Career

Here are some highlights from Barry Keoghan’s career journey:

2016: Starring in “The Nice Guys” alongside Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe
2017: Acclaimed performance in “Dunkirk” directed by Christopher Nolan
2019: Playing Monty de la Cruz in 13 Reasons Why

Unique Acting Style and Techniques

What sets Barry Keoghan apart from other actors is his unique approach to his craft. He’s known for his ability to immerse himself completely in a role, often drawing from real-life experiences to add authenticity to his performances. Whether it’s a dramatic scene or a subtle emotional moment, Barry brings a level of intensity that makes his characters unforgettable.

How Does He Prepare for a Role?

Barry spends a lot of time researching and understanding the characters he plays. For Monty de la Cruz, he delved deep into the psychology of manipulation and control. He also worked closely with the show’s creators to ensure that his portrayal aligned with the overall narrative. This level of dedication is what makes his performances so compelling.

Monty de la Cruz: The Character Unveiled

Monty de la Cruz is one of the most talked-about characters in 13 Reasons Why. His story arc is filled with twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Barry Keoghan’s portrayal adds another layer of intrigue to the character, making him one of the most memorable villains in the series.

Key Traits of Monty de la Cruz

Here are some defining traits of Monty:

Charismatic yet manipulative
Carries a dark secret that drives his actions
Complex and multidimensional

Impact on 13 Reasons Why's Narrative

Barry Keoghan’s performance as Monty de la Cruz had a significant impact on the overall narrative of 13 Reasons Why. His character adds a layer of tension and unpredictability that keeps the audience hooked. Without Monty, the series would have lacked the depth and complexity that made it so compelling.

How Monty Influences Other Characters

Monty’s actions and decisions affect almost every major character in the series. His presence creates a ripple effect that influences the relationships and conflicts between the other characters. Barry Keoghan’s ability to convey this interconnectedness through his performance is nothing short of impressive.

Rise to Fame Through Netflix

Before 13 Reasons Why, Barry Keoghan was already gaining recognition in the film industry. However, his role as Monty de la Cruz catapulted him into mainstream fame. The global reach of Netflix allowed millions of viewers to discover his talent, leading to more opportunities and collaborations.

Barry's Reaction to Fame

In interviews, Barry has spoken about how his life changed after 13 Reasons Why. While he’s grateful for the opportunities that came his way, he remains grounded and focused on his craft. His humility and dedication to his work are traits that many in the industry admire.

Criticism and Praise for His Performance

Like any high-profile role, Barry Keoghan’s performance as Monty de la Cruz received both praise and criticism. Some viewers praised his ability to bring depth and nuance to a complex character, while others felt that Monty’s storyline could have been explored further.

What the Critics Say

Critics have largely been positive about Barry’s performance, highlighting his ability to convey emotion and complexity. One review from The Guardian described his portrayal as “a masterclass in subtlety and control.” However, there have been some criticisms regarding the limited screen time given to Monty’s character.

Future Projects and Aspirations

With the success of 13 Reasons Why and his other projects, Barry Keoghan is set to take on even bigger challenges in the future. He’s currently working on several films and TV series that promise to showcase his versatility as an actor.

Upcoming Projects

Here’s a sneak peek at some of Barry’s upcoming projects:

A lead role in a mystery-thriller film
A collaboration with renowned director Martin Scorsese
An experimental theater project in Ireland

Final Thoughts: Barry Keoghan's Legacy

Barry Keoghan’s journey from a young theater enthusiast to a globally recognized actor is a testament to his talent and dedication. His performance as Monty de la Cruz in 13 Reasons Why is just one example of his ability to bring complex characters to life. As he continues to take on new challenges, there’s no doubt that Barry Keoghan will leave a lasting mark on the world of entertainment.

So, what’s next for Barry Keoghan? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—this rising star is just getting started. If you haven’t already, go watch 13 Reasons Why and see for yourself why Barry Keoghan is the real deal. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out his other projects. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Got thoughts about Barry Keoghan’s performance in 13 Reasons Why? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about it. Also, don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family who love great acting and compelling storytelling!

Barry Keoghan's Shocking "13 Reasons Why" Connection You Need to Know

13 Reasons Why Season 3 2019, HD Tv Shows, 4k Wallpapers, Images

CineScoop Now