Chris Colfer

Early Life

Christopher Paul Colfer was born on May 27, 1990, in Clovis, California, to Karyn and Timothy Colfer. He is of Irish descent and has often expressed pride in his heritage, humorously noting that his family's Saint Patrick's Day celebrations are quite lively. Colfer faced significant challenges in his early years, including a lengthy hospital stay following a lymph node surgery and the emotional strain of his younger sister's severe epilepsy. These experiences fueled his imagination and led him to write fairy tales as a form of escapism. His grandmother played a pivotal role in nurturing his storytelling passion, encouraging him to pursue writing from a young age.

Career

Colfer's artistic journey began in community theater, where he first performed in productions like "West Side Story" and "The Sound of Music." His breakout role came in 2009 when he was cast as Kurt Hummel on the hit television series "Glee." Initially auditioning for a different character, Colfer's talent impressed creator Ryan Murphy so much that a new role was created specifically for him. His portrayal of Kurt, a fashionable gay countertenor, earned him critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award and several People's Choice Awards. Colfer's influence extended beyond acting; he also ventured into writing, publishing his first novel, "The Land of Stories: A Treasury of Classic Fairy Tales."

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Colfer publicly came out as gay in 2009 and has been in a relationship with actor and producer Will Sherrod since 2013. He is an advocate for LGBTQ rights and has actively supported initiatives like the It Gets Better campaign and The Trevor Project, dedicating his Golden Globe Award to bullied LGBTQ youth. Colfer's commitment to philanthropy is evident through his participation in various campaigns and public service announcements, including a notable anti-bullying PSA with Elmo for Sesame Street. His influence and advocacy continue to inspire many, making him a prominent figure in both the entertainment industry and social activism.