| Full Name | Cory Allan Michael Monteith |
| Birthday | May 11, 1982 |
| Birthplace | Calgary, Alberta, Canada |
| Death Date | July 13, 2013 (age 31) |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Born | Canada |
| Height | 6′ 4′′ |
| Net Worth | $2 million |
| Relationship Status | Dating co-star Lea Michele (2011-2013) |
| Social Media | Twitter, Instagram |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Calgary and raised in Victoria, British Columbia, Cory Monteith always had a passion for performing. As a child, he sang in a choir and took drum and piano lessons. At age 7, he started modeling and acting in commercials. However, as a teenager, Monteith struggled with substance abuse and dropped out of school at 16. After attending rehab, Monteith rediscovered his desire to perform.
Monteith‘s first major role came in 2004 on the sci-fi series Stargate Atlantis. This launched his TV career with guest spots on shows like Supernatural, Kyle XY, and Kaya. But his big break was being cast as the lovable high school football quarterback Finn Hudson on the hit musical comedy Glee in 2009.
Becoming a Star on Glee
As Finn Hudson, Monteith charmed fans with his goofy charm, talent, and emotional storylines. Finn joined the glee club to get closer to his crush Rachel Berry. Along the way, he found a passion for performing, clashing with his popularity as the football quarterback. Monteith showcased his impressive musicianship by singing everything from Journey to Justin Timberlake. His standout solos included "(I‘ve Had) The Time of My Life" and "Jessie‘s Girl."
For his work on Glee, Monteith won a 2011 Teen Choice Award. He also enjoyed the show‘s wild success, including:
- Multiple Emmy and Golden Globe wins
- Chart-topping soundtracks
- Sold out concert tours
- Guest performer spots on shows like The Simpsons
During Glee‘s six seasons, Monteith got to spread his wings as an actor in films like Monte Carlo (2011) and Sisters & Brothers (2011). But Finn Hudson remained his most beloved role.
Charity Work and Advocacy
A drummer since childhood, Monteith enjoyed drumming for charity causes. He was an avid participant in the Project Limelight charity drum circles for children. Monteith also visited sick kids in hospitals to raise their spirits.
Having faced substance abuse himself, Monteith openly advocated for drug treatment and prevention. He supported the resource website Sober Circle and Drugfree.org. Monteith hoped his story could encourage others to get help and stay clean.
Relationship with Lea Michele
Monteith and his Glee castmate Lea Michele began dating in 2011. The co-stars tried to keep their romance out of the spotlight but seemed very happy together. On vacation in early 2013, Monteith supported Michele at her concert shows. But shortly after, he relapsed and entered rehab again.
Michele was devastated by his sudden death by overdose on July 13, 2013 at only 31 years old. She said he was her "person" and would miss him forever. Along with Michele, Monteith‘s mother, brother Shaun, and Glee cast all mourned the tragic loss of this talented actor gone far too soon.
Though his time on earth ended prematurely, the joy and inspiration Cory Monteith brought to fans remains. His courage to openly face addiction helps keep his spirit alive. Cory Monteith is forever remembered as a charming performer who could touch your heart and make you smile.