In 1970, after considerable stage experience at Flinders University had extended a start made during his school days at Scotch College, Darrell Hilton graduated with his BA(Hons) in Drama. He subsequently appeared in nine major productions for the Children's Theatre of SA (Bunyip Theatre), and other shows in Adelaide including 'The Golden Years' at the Olde Kings Music Hall.

In 1973 Darrell moved to Melbourne for a principal role in I love you, Humphrey B Bear at Her Majesty's before performing in the musical 'Two Gentlemen of Verona' and with the Children's Arena Theatre in 'Calico Curtain. The title role in 'Rumpelstiltskin' was followed by ten months with the Melbourne Theatre Co.

Darrell received rave reviews for his portrayal of Brenda/George in 'How Does Your Garden Grow' at the Nimrod Theatre in Sydney. He appeared with Sidney James in 'The Mating Season', with Jill Perryman in 'Leading Lady' and 'in Alice in Wonderland'.

After the Melbourne season of 'Leading Lady', Darrell went to UK where he worked in the West End with Arthur Askey in 'Jack & the Beanstalk' and then with Bruce Forsyth in 'The Travelling Music Show'. Upon his return to Australia, he appeared in 'Paradise Regained' before touring with 'Evita'. He was a regular in 'Young Doctors' in the role of Chris Butler and played in a number of Philip Street Theatre Productions, including 'Three Little Pigs', 'Aladdin & his Magic Lamp', 'Puss in Boots', 'Cinderella' and 'Whose Life is it Anyway?' prior to the seaon of 'Pastrana' at the Sydney Opera House.

Darrell's television credits include the ABC series 'Rush' & 'Certain Women', 'The Young Doctors', All Saints and 'Young Lions'.