Cory Monteith had several minor roles on various television series in Canada before an audition tape of him singing “Can’t Fight This Feeling” helped to land him the most significant role of his career. Finn on Glee thrust Cory into the spotlight, where he found love with Lea Michele, fame and fortune. He also used his position in the public eye to speak candidly about addiction, urging others struggling with the same issues to get help. Tragically, Cory couldn’t get that same help for himself: he passed away last July as a result of his longtime struggle.
In honor of what would have been his 32nd birthday, we’re honoring Cory’s memory with his top 5 Finn Moments:
“Don’t Stop Believin’” Season 1
This performance of the Journey smash hit ended the pilot episode of Glee and cemented Cory as a bona fide star. His stage presence is beyond amazing and he carries the song in a way that he would carry his future Gleeks in seasons to come.
“Just The Way You Are” Season 2
This rendition of the Bruno Mars song was amazing and emotional on so many levels. Finn and Kurt performed this at their parents’ wedding. The song is an anthem of acceptance: acceptance of the marriage, of Kurt as a brother, of people pursuing their own passions and of fully living life as they are.
“Glory Days” Season 3
Finn and the rest of the Gleeks performed the iconic Bruce Springsteen tune as a farewell song in Season 3. The performance was a perfect send-off for the seniors, simultaneously emotional, celebratory and jubilant (much like Finn himself!).
“We Are The Champions” Season 3
The performance of Queen’s power ballad was an emotional high for viewers across the nation. Finn leads the group with boundless energy and proves that he really was the ultimate champion and leader.
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” Season 1
The final song is the one that started it all for Finn. Will hearing Finn singing the REO Speedwagon tune when he thinks no one is listening topples the first domino that eventually brings Finn to the Glee club and changes the course of his life..and ours.
RIP, Cory. You’re gone too soon, but never forgotten!