Check out our interview with up-and-comer young actor Alex J. Montero. Alex stars as the titular character in The Kid Who Only Hit Homers. The family baseball feature is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.
Based on the bestselling sports series by Matt Christopher, follows Sylvester “Syl” Coddmeyer III, a young teen who eats, sleeps, and breathes baseball. The only problem is that he isn’t very good at playing the sport. His dad played ball in the minors and Syl wants nothing more than to make him, and his teammates proud. But once the spirit of Babe Ruth appears, Syl seems to be suddenly able to unlock his own potential and quickly becomes the star he always dreamt of being.
Follow Alex @TheRealAlexJMontero
Hi Alex, please tell us a little about you?
I am almost 14 years old. I live in Miami, Florida and I am in 8th grade. I play the piano, really enjoy skateboarding, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, playing video games, and hanging out with my dog, Dixon.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Determined, dedicated, and happy
How did you get started in acting?
I started acting at my local theater when I was 7 years old. One of the roles I played was Aladdin in Aladdin Jr. At that moment I knew that acting was all I ever wanted to do.
How has this changed your life?
Acting really brings me so much happiness. It is an incredible outlet for me to get creative and let my imagination run free when I take on a role. I learn so much about myself as well as the character I am playing when I work alongside other actors. It’s like a jolt of energy.
What is the best and worst part of being an actor?
The best part of being an actor is taking on the role of someone else. Bringing that character to life with respect and dignity. I’m not sure if there is a worst part to being an actor. I love the uncertainty about it, the stress about it, the anticipation of auditioning even when I don’t get the part.
How do you prepare for a role?
I read the script numerous times to get a good feel for the character I am playing and how he relates to all the other characters. This really helps me to get to know the character and the layers of their emotions.
Tell us about your work on “The Kid Who Only Hit Homers?”
The Kid Who Only Hit Homers was a wonderful opportunity. It is based on the book by the same title written by Matt Christopher. I was really honored to have been chosen to play the part of Sylvester ‘Syl’ Coddmeyer III. This character meant so much to so many people. It’s about a boy who really loves baseball but is struggling with believing in himself.
What other projects you have been part of?
The Ballad of Janis Matthews and the Dodo Scouts by Giancarlo Rodaz & Rachel Dean
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I really enjoy serious dramatic roles. l like to empathize and really dig deep to understand the emotions of a character. I also love all things Marvel and have always wanted to play Spiderman.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The finished product. Whether in theater or on film, everyone works so hard and for so many hours. The satisfaction and joy when you create something you are proud of is like no other.
What did you learn from your biggest failure?
What comes to mind is when I don’t land a role. I no longer see that as failing. I realized at a young age it wasn’t personal. Sometimes, you might not get a part simply because casting was looking for someone with a different look. Nonetheless, you learn as much as you can and continue to evolve and improve your craft. You just keep moving forward and don’t give up.
What’s your advice for the newer actors?
Follow your dreams. When you have a passion for something don’t let anyone’s negativity instill any doubt in what you are capable of accomplishing.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in this business?
Never take anything personally and don’t give up. Rejection happens often in this business. You just have to keep auditioning and not quit.
How would your best friend describe you?
Funny and adventurous
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” because I love adventures and solving mysteries.
What’s next for Alex J. Montero in 2021?
I am definitely looking forward to making more movies. I have a couple of things in the works but I can’t share just yet.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Blueberries
And your favorite cheat food?
Strawberries dipped in Nutella
How would you explain your fashion style?
Casual T-shirts with jeans and a layered button-down shirt over it or my favorite – any kind of jacket. Sneakers all the way.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Family
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Robert Downey Jr. because he is such a versatile actor.
Best advice ever given?
Be kind to everyone.
Do you support a charity?
My family and I participate in soup kitchens and food drives in our community regularly. Throughout this pandemic especially, so many people have lost their jobs and are struggling, we try to help in any way we can.
Where do you see yourself and your career 5 years from now?
Continuing to make more movies
Favorite song? Why?
“The Man Who Can’t Be Moved” by The Script because my dad plays it every day. I also have an Olivia Rodrigo obsession and really like her song “brutal”, as well as Joshua Basset’s “Do It All Again”.
What do you think of social media?
If used properly, I think social media is great. It keeps you connected with family and friends, you can be super creative, and it gives you access to things that are happening around the world. It really can be a great learning tool, but you have to be careful. If misused social media can lend itself to drama and negativity. A lot of people use social media to present themselves or their lives in a certain way or worse for bullying others.
Where we can follow you?
On Instagram @TheRealAlexJMontero
FAVORITES:
Book: Wonder
Quote: “Don’t tell me the sky’s the limit when there are footprints on the moon.” – Paul Brandt
Movie: Anything Marvel
TV Series: WandaVision
Favorite Food: Barbecue Ribs
Travel Destination: Dubai
Photo courtesy of Andrew Steinman
