Whatever Happened To ‘Life Goes On’ Actor Chris Burke?

Chris Burke, an American actor best known for his portrayal of Charles “Corky” Thatcher in the television series “Life Goes On,” has been a beacon of inspiration for many.

Born with Down syndrome, Burke’s journey in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of remarkable. This article delves into his early life, his groundbreaking role in “Life Goes On,” and his recent endeavors.

Background Information

Christopher Joseph Burke was born on August 26, 1965, in New York, New York. He is the youngest of four children of Marian Burke, a retired trade-show manager, and Frank Burke, a retired NYPD inspector.

Born with Down syndrome during a time when little was known about the disorder, Burke’s parents were advised to institutionalize him. However, they chose to raise him at home, nurturing his talents with the support of his siblings. From a young age, Burke was fascinated by television and movies, aspiring to be on screen.

Burke’s educational journey was marked by challenges. In the early 1970s, public schools in the U.S. were not inclusive of students with disabilities.

Burke attended the Kennedy Child Study Center in New York City and later the Cardinal Cushing School and Training Center in Massachusetts. He then transferred to the Don Guanella School in Pennsylvania, graduating in 1986.

Burke mention he was inspired into acting by another boy with Down syndrome he saw on a TV series called “The Fall Guy.”

Acting Career

His passion for acting was evident early on. His first performance was in a production of “The Emperor’s New Clothes” at the Cardinal Cushing School.

This role led him to participate in a talent show where he acted as a zombie in a reenactment of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video.

Chris’s journey into acting was not without challenges. Despite his family’s reservations about the harsh realities of the TV industry, Chris was determined.

He took acting lessons, wrote scripts, and was deeply passionate about showcasing the potential of individuals with Down syndrome.

His breakthrough came when he was recommended for a role in a TV pilot titled “Desperate.” Although the pilot wasn’t picked up for a series, ABC executives were impressed with Chris’s on-screen charisma, leading to the creation of “Life Goes On.”

Life Goes On

The show revolves around the Thatcher family living in suburban Chicago, consisting of Drew, his wife Libby, and their children Paige, Rebecca, and Charles, who is affectionately known as Corky.

The series is particularly notable as it was the first television show to feature a major character with Down syndrome.

Corky is the middle child of the Thatcher family, being the younger brother of Paige and the older brother of Becca.

Despite having Down syndrome, Corky attends regular classes in high school. While he faces challenges, especially with subjects like mathematics, he continually strives to improve with the help of tutoring sessions.

The series delves deep into Corky’s life, showcasing his interactions with society, his experiences in a regular high school, and his relationships with his family and friends.

Corky’s character is central to the show’s theme of acceptance, integration, and the challenges and triumphs of a family with a special needs member.

The show, which aired from 1989 to 1993, offered a realistic portrayal of individuals with Down syndrome, changing perceptions and breaking barriers.

Post Life Goes On

After Life Goes On ended, Burke continued to make appearances in various TV shows and movies. He co-starred with JoBeth Williams in the NBC Movie of the Week “Jonathan: The Boy Nobody Wanted” and made appearances in series like “The Commish,” “Promised Land,” and “ER.”

Beyond acting, Burke has been a staunch advocate for Down syndrome. He has served as the Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society since 1994, traveling across the country to attend events, make public appearances, and interact with fans.

Beyond acting, Chris ventured into music. In 1993, he recorded his first album with friends Joe and John DeMasi. They released three more albums and performed across the country, often at events promoting awareness of Down syndrome.

In 1991, Burke co-authored his autobiography, “A Special Kind of Hero,” and from 1994 to 2005, he served as the editor-in-chief of publications like “News ‘n Views” and “UpBeat,” which were written by and for individuals with Down syndrome.

What is Chris Burke Doing Now?

Today, Chris is a spokesperson for the National Down Syndrome Society in New York City. He spends his days helping with various tasks and continues to be an advocate for individuals with disabilities. He also enjoys exploring Manhattan, keeping up with the latest movies and music.

Although he does not have a social media presence, his Life Goes On costar, Kellie Martin, has dedicated several post to his honor on Instagram.

In a touching post on Instagram, actress Kellie Martin took a moment to honor her former “Life Goes On” co-star, Chris Burke, especially on #worlddownsyndromeday.

Her words were a testament to the profound impact Chris has had on her life. She wrote, “I feel like celebrating Chris Burke everyday but particularly on #worlddownsyndromeday. There is nothing he can’t do and no one he can’t win over.

Chris Burke’s journey from a young boy with dreams of being on television to a celebrated actor and advocate is a testament to his resilience, talent, and the unwavering support of his family. His story continues to inspire many, proving that with determination and passion, one can overcome any obstacle.