As ‘Betty Childs,’ the quintessential mean girl in the 80s hit “Revenge of the Nerds,” Julia Montgomery was the embodiment of high school elitism—popular, privileged, and dismissive of anyone outside her circle.
But what happened to the actress who so convincingly ruled the corridors of Adams High?
Early Life
Julia Montgomery’s story begins in Kansas City, Missouri on July 2, 1960. She would end up attending Livingston High School in New Jersey, and was part of an extremely talented graduating class. Jason Alexander and Chelsea Handler got their diplomas at the same time as Montgomery, and she would even act opposite of Alexander in a few school plays.
Acting Career
Julia Montgomery made her national debut on “One Life To Live” as Samantha Vernon from 1977 to 1980, earning praise from experienced co-stars like Jameson Parker and Farley Granger.
The role of Samantha, a character close to her own age, allowed Montgomery to showcase her natural mannerisms.
Despite her success, she decided to leave the show after three years due to challenges working with Phil Carey, who, despite being a decent person, struggled with on-set alcohol and medication issues, often becoming detached from the scene and the cast.
Revenge Of The Nerds
Revenge of the Nerds” is a 1984 American comedy film directed by Jeff Kanew, centered around socially awkward students targeted by the jock fraternity on campus. The nerds retaliate by forming their own fraternity, and Julia Montgomery portrays Betty Childs, a popular sorority girl initially aligned with the jocks but later falling in love with one of the nerds.
Montgomery, Brian Tochi, and Larry B. Scott were notable cast members in the 1984 comedy.
Although Julia Montgomery did not appear in the sequel of the film, she did reprise her role in the third and fourth installments.
Later Career
The talented actress would have a few other notable roles in the late 1980’s and 1990’s. She played doctor Sally Arthur in a series called Earth Star Voyager in conjunction with Disney.
Julia Montgomery would also make appearances in fabled shows such as Columbo, Cheers and Full House, where she played the adult version of Stephanie Tanner in one episode.
She did not appear in any TV or movies from 1995-2011, but picked her acting career back up in 2012.
What is Julia Montgomery Doing Now?
Today, Julia Montgomery continues her acting career with recent minor roles in television shows such as “Bothered” in 2020 and 2022, and “Covid Book Club” in 2022.
Additionally, she has embarked on a career in real estate as a licensed agent with Kaptain Real Estate Group, successfully handling transactions for homes valued over $1 million.
Montgomery also actively participates in fan conventions, engaging with her fanbase and celebrating her past roles.
In a recent interview, Julia Montgomery addressed the controversy surrounding a scene in “Revenge of the Nerds” where her character, Betty Childs, mistakes a nerd for her jock boyfriend.
Montgomery provided context from Betty’s perspective, explaining how the character was gradually charmed and worn down by Lewis’s persistent efforts, contrasting sharply with her boyfriend’s poor treatment.
She acknowledged the current debates around the scene, understanding why it is viewed controversially today, given the changing perspectives on consent and representation in media.
Montgomery emphasized that the scene was a product of its time, and while she understands the controversy, she also highlighted the character’s journey and transformation in the film, from initially repelling Lewis to being touched by his genuine interest and charm.
Family Life
Julia Montgomery and Jon David Reede have been married since 1996. The couple has had two children together, and Montgomery took a break from acting to raise them.