Celebrity Nooz: Chris Burke

Chris Burke (Actor) as Corky - Life Goes On

Updated: 1/2/13

Name: Chris Burke

Born: August 26, 1965 in Point Lookout, New York

Claim To Fame: If you know the name Chris Burke then you most definitely know him from his role as Corky Thatcher from the TV series, 'Life Goes On'.

Family Life: Never married

Info: Chris has Down Syndrome. His parents were told to institutionalize him when he was born, but they decided to raise him at home and nurture his talents. He was encouraged to follow his career objectives no matter how untraditional they seemed for a young man with Down Syndrome. His siblings also worked with him. Many were surprised at how healthy and bright Burke was when he entered formal schooling.

Trivia: Used to work as an elevator operator.

First set his sights on becoming a tap dancer. He later switched to acting while at the Don Guanella School. He was further inspired by attending night classes, going through auditions, writing scripts, and reading books.

Tours with his 3-piece folk band.

Is the youngest of 4 children.

Serves as a Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society and is editor-in-chief of its quarterly magazine.

Where Are They Now: Tours with his 3-piece folk band. He sings with his twin friends, Joe and John DeMasi. They were his music counselors at a camp for persons with disabilities. The band has released several albums and they tour the country.

Burke has been the Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society[5] since 1994 and has starred in many of the organization's acclaimed public service announcements. He travels the country attending Buddy Walks, making public appearances, speaking with the press and greeting fans. When he is not on the road, Burke is a valued member of the National Down Syndrome Society's staff, working in their New York City office.

From 1994 to 2005 he was the editor-in-chief of "News 'n Views" and "UpBeat", publications written by and for people with Down syndrome, and in 2009 he contributed to the National Down Syndrome Society's My Great Story campaign by writing his story, "Great Expectations".

Write To Chris Burke:
Chris Burke
426 S Orange Grove Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90036

Official Website: www.chrisburke.org

View other 'Where Are They Now' celebrities

Read the latest issue of Celebrity Nooz

Subscribe!