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United States Chris Burke is an American actor known for his pioneering role in network television and his continued advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome.
Appeared as himself in a television Public Service Announcement (PSA) for the Partnership for a Drug-Free America. This partnership leveraged Burke's public recognition from 'Life Goes On' to deliver anti-drug messaging.
Has served as the Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society since 1994. In this role, he participates in their acclaimed public service announcements, including campaigns with Tracey Ullman, John C. McGinley, Meredith Vieira, and Nancy O'Dell. He travels the country for Buddy Walks, makes public appearances, speaks with the press, and engages with fans, also working as a staff member in their New York City office.
Signed a record deal with BMGKidz in 1994 with his musical group, Chris Burke with Joe and John DeMasi, releasing the album 'Singer with the Band.' They also released 'Forever Friends' which won a Parents Choice Gold Seal for Excellence Award, and 'A World of Kindness' in 1998.
Published Chris Burke's autobiography, 'A Special Kind of Hero,' co-written with Jo Beth McDaniel, in 1991. The book landed on bestseller lists and was selected as a top book of 1991 by Library Journal.
Chris Burke was born on August 26, 1965, in Point Lookout, New York. Diagnosed with Down syndrome, his parents chose to raise him at home, nurturing his interests including a childhood ambition to appear on television. He attended the Kennedy Child Study Center and later boarding schools, graduating from Don Guanella in 1986. After graduation, Burke held a position as an elevator operator and volunteered, while also attending acting classes, writing scripts, and pursuing his acting passion. His early theatrical experience included a performance in “The Emperor’s New Clothes” at the Cardinal Cushing School.
Burke’s professional acting career began in 1987 with a role in the ABC TV movie “Desperate.” His performance led to ABC developing “Life Goes On,” a groundbreaking series that ran from 1989 to 1993, where he starred as Charles “Corky” Thatcher. This role was significant as Corky was the first character with Down syndrome to be featured prominently in a network television series, challenging public perceptions of disabilities. During this period, Burke was nominated for a Golden Globe Award in 1990 for Best Actor in a Supporting Role and a Golden Apple Award the same year. He was also recognized as one of Ten Outstanding Young Americans in 1991 for his work.
Following “Life Goes On,” Burke continued to act, appearing in the NBC Movie of the Week “Jonathan: The Boy Nobody Wanted” (1992), the miniseries “North & South: Book 3, Heaven & Hell” (1994), and television series such as “The Commish” (1994), “Promised Land” (1997), and “ER” (2002). He also had a recurring role as Taylor, an angel with Down syndrome, in “Touched by an Angel” (1997). In 2003, he played a custodian in the film “Mona Lisa Smile.” Beyond acting, Burke has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society since 1994, touring with his band, Chris Burke with Joe and John DeMasi, and co-authoring his autobiography, “A Special Kind of Hero,” in 1991. He has also been editor-in-chief for publications focusing on people with Down syndrome, contributing to public awareness and advocacy.
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