Former Disney Star Opens Up About Traumatic Experience in Conversion Therapy
Matthew Scott Montgomery, a former Disney star known for his role on So Random!, has shared his harrowing experience with conversion therapy in a recent podcast interview. On Christy Carlson Romano’s PodCo podcast, Vulnerable, the 34-year-old actor opened up about the painful process of coming out to his conservative parents and subsequently being sent to conversion therapy.
Montgomery grew up in a very conservative household in North Carolina, where traditional gender norms were enforced. He recalled being taught that his only options in life were excelling in sports, getting a scholarship, marrying a woman, and owning a home. This limited view of masculinity made it difficult for him to embrace his own identity.
After moving to Los Angeles, Montgomery starred in a play called Yellow, where he portrayed a gay teen who faced physical and emotional abuse. This experience prompted him to come out to his parents on his 18th birthday, which did not go well. His mother collapsed in tears, his parents were deeply upset, and they left town, leaving him feeling isolated and rejected.
In an attempt to change his sexual orientation, Montgomery voluntarily enrolled in conversion therapy, a practice that seeks to alter the LGBTQ+ community’s sexual orientation or gender identity through harmful physical and psychological therapies. He clarified that Disney had no involvement in his decision but felt compelled to undergo therapy due to his parents’ negative reaction.
The therapy sessions involved completing worksheets about his feelings for men and apologizing to his father for being an artistic little boy. Montgomery also endured electroshock therapy and a form of hypnosis that paired painful procedures with psychological conditioning. He described how they used scenarios of a post-apocalyptic world where he would hug a straight man, only to receive an electric shock.
Eventually, while working on a play that mirrored his own life, Montgomery realized that he didn’t need to change or be punished. He broke free from conversion therapy and began to curate a life filled with love, acceptance, and artistic expression. He found support and love from friends like Hayley Kiyoko and Demi Lovato, whose family eventually embraced him as one of their own.
Although he still experiences some lasting effects from his time in conversion therapy, Montgomery wants to share his story to provide hope and support to others facing similar situations. He emphasizes that there is nothing wrong with anyone who has been through or is considering conversion therapy and encourages them to embrace their true selves.
Matthew Scott Montgomery’s brave account sheds light on the damaging effects of conversion therapy and the importance of acceptance and love. By sharing his truth, he hopes to create empathy and understanding, reminding others that they are deserving of a beautiful and authentic life.
