Corey Feldman’s name is instantly tied to some of the most beloved films of the 1980s. From his breakout role in The Goonies to the vampire cult classic The Lost Boys, he became one of the defining child stars of his generation. But his career and personal life have been marked by far more than just box office hits.
Decades after his peak fame, Feldman remains a public figure through his music, his advocacy, and a series of deeply controversial allegations about the entertainment industry. This article separates the documented facts of his career from the more complex and debated areas of his life.
Corey Feldman’s Career Highlights: From Child Star to Icon
Estimated $1-5 Million
Varies by source, significantly lower than peak 80s/90s earnings.
Married to Courtney Anne Mitchell (2020-present)
Former wives: Vanessa Marcil, Susie Sprague. Has one son, Zen.
The Goonies, Gremlins, The Lost Boys, Stand By Me
As a child actor in the 1980s.
Corey Haim
Known as ‘The Two Coreys’ in eight films together.
Key Insights
- Corey Feldman rose to fame as one of Hollywood’s most prominent child actors in the 1980s.
- His close friendship and film partnership with Corey Haim defined the ‘Two Coreys’ era.
- He has been a prominent voice for child actor advocacy, particularly regarding abuse allegations within the industry.
- His public statements and documentary about Michael Jackson have generated significant controversy and media attention.
- He has reinvented himself as a musician and continues to work in independent film and TV.
- His current net worth reflects a lengthy but financially volatile career.
Corey Feldman Snapshot Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Corey Scott Feldman |
| Date of Birth | July 16, 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Reseda, California, USA |
| Occupation | Actor, Singer, Writer, Producer, Director |
| Years Active | 1978 – Present |
| Notable 80s Films | The Goonies, Gremlins, The Lost Boys, Stand By Me |
| Music Project | The Artist Formerly Known (formerly Corey Feldman’s Truth Movement) |
| Documentary | My Truth: The Rape of 2 Coreys |
Corey Feldman and Corey Haim: The Dynamic Duo of the 80s
No discussion of Corey Feldman’s career is complete without Corey Haim. The pair met on the set of The Lost Boys in 1987 and quickly became inseparable both on and off screen. Their chemistry led to a string of popular films together, including License to Drive and Dream a Little Dream.
Media and fans dubbed them “The Two Coreys,” a brand that spawned a reality television series of the same name in 2007. The show documented their friendship as adults, including Haim’s well-publicized struggles with addiction. Haim passed away in 2010 at the age of 38.
Feldman has stated that he and Haim starred in eight films together. Their partnership remains one of the most recognizable actor duos of the decade.
The Controversies Surrounding Corey Feldman
Feldman has been at the center of several major Hollywood controversies. He has publicly stated that he experienced childhood sexual abuse within the industry and has named individuals he claims were involved. These statements have been the subject of interviews, a documentary titled My Truth: The Rape of 2 Coreys, and ongoing media scrutiny. It is important to note that many of these remain allegations and have not been proven in a court of law.
Connection to Michael Jackson
Feldman was a friend of Michael Jackson as a child. He has spoken about their relationship in various interviews and in his documentary. His comments on Jackson’s behavior have varied over the years, adding to the complexity of the public narrative. Feldman has said he was never abused by Jackson but claims to have witnessed questionable behavior.
Other Legal and Public Scrutiny
Beyond his own allegations, Feldman has faced scrutiny himself. He has been accused of sexual misconduct in connection with a group he founded called “Corey’s Angels,” which he has denied. These allegations are part of the public record.
Feldman’s claims about abuse, his relationship with Michael Jackson, and the allegations against him are all statements and claims. They are not universally accepted as established facts and remain subjects of public debate and legal ambiguity.
Corey Feldman’s Personal Life and Net Worth Today
Feldman has been married three times. He was married to Vanessa Marcil from 1989 to 1993, and to Susie Sprague from 2002 to 2014, with whom he has a son named Zen Scott Feldman. In 2020, he married Courtney Anne Mitchell, with whom he appears publicly.
Determining a precise net worth for Feldman is difficult. Public estimates range widely, often cited between $1 million and $5 million. No reliable, official figure exists. His wealth has fluctuated significantly since his peak earnings as a child star.
Corey Feldman’s Musical and Current Endeavors
While acting remains part of his identity, Feldman has pursued a serious music career. He has released six studio albums, including Love Left (1992), Former Child Actor (2002), and Angelic 2 the Core (2016). He currently performs under the moniker “The Artist Formerly Known” and continues to tour and release new music.
His current work also includes independent film projects and social media engagement. He remains actively involved in his advocacy work, frequently using his platform to speak about child safety in the entertainment industry.
Key Events in Corey Feldman’s Life
- : Born in Reseda, California.
- : Began professional acting career at age 3 with a McDonald’s commercial.
- : Gained prominence with ‘Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter’ and ‘Gremlins’.
- : Starred in ‘The Goonies’.
- : Starred in ‘Stand By Me’.
- : Starred in ‘The Lost Boys’ with Corey Haim, solidifying the ‘Two Coreys’ fame.
- : Starred in ‘Dream a Little Dream’ with Corey Haim.
- : Launched the band ‘Corey Feldman’s Truth Movement’.
- : Wrote and published autobiography ‘Coreyography’.
- : Married Courtney Anne Mitchell.
- : Released new music and announced new film projects under ‘The Artist Formerly Known’.
Certainty vs. Uncertainty in Feldman’s Story
Corey Feldman’s public life is a mix of established career facts and controversial personal claims. It’s crucial to distinguish between documented history and allegations.
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| His filmography is a matter of public record. | His precise net worth is uncertain, with public estimates ranging widely. |
| He was married to Vanessa Marcil and Susie Sprague, and has a son with Sprague. | Allegations he has made regarding abuse are allegations, not legally established facts. |
| He married Courtney Anne Mitchell in 2020. | His specific claims and interpretations of events are subject to debate. |
| He was a successful child star in the 1980s. | His relationship with Michael Jackson is documented, but interpretations vary. |
Understanding the Broader Context
Analysis of his career demonstrates a successful, early peak followed by a perpetual effort to evolve and remain relevant. His career is a case study in the pressures of child stardom. His outspoken advocacy on child safety has become a significant aspect of his identity, shaping how many view him today.
Key Statements from Corey Feldman
I was a child actor and I’ve seen things. I know things.
Corey Feldman (paraphrased in interviews)
The Artist Formally Known.
Corey Feldman (branding)
My Truth: The Rape of 2 Coreys
Documentary Title (2015)
What’s Next for Corey Feldman?
Monitor official sources for announcements about his new movie and music. Track updates regarding any public statements or hearings related to his advocacy and allegations. Observe any new film or TV projects that leverage his 80s star legacy. For more context on the era, see our list of Popular Actors of the 80s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Corey Feldman have a son?
Yes, he has a son named Zen Scott Feldman from his marriage to Susie Sprague.
Where did Corey Feldman grow up?
He was born in Reseda, California and raised in Southern California.
Is Corey Feldman still acting?
Yes, he continues to work in independent film and television, alongside his music career.
What is Corey Feldman’s most famous quote?
A frequently cited statement is: “I was a child actor and I’ve seen things. I know things.”
How many albums has Corey Feldman released?
He has released six studio albums to date.
What is the ‘Two Coreys’ documentary called?
It is called My Truth: The Rape of 2 Coreys.
What was Corey Feldman’s first acting job?
He started with a McDonald’s commercial at the age of three.
Is Corey Feldman on social media?
Yes, he is active on Instagram and other platforms.
Amelia Foster is Film & Television Editor at ShowbizUK.co.uk, covering film, television, streaming releases, reality TV, cast updates, trailers and UK screen-industry developments.