Corey Feldman Net Worth: A Look into the Life and Career of a Troubled Child Star

Corey Feldman, a name synonymous with the golden age of 1980s cinema, is a figure who has experienced both the dizzying heights of fame and the crushing lows of personal and professional struggles. Known for iconic roles in films like The Goonies and Stand By Me, Feldman’s life has been as complex as any Hollywood storyline. With a net worth of $1 million, Corey Feldman’s journey through the entertainment world is one of resilience, transformation, and continuous reinvention. Despite battling numerous personal issues, he remains an advocate for child actors’ rights and a voice for those affected by the darker side of Hollywood.

Early Life and Beginnings in Show Business

Born Corey Scott Feldman on July 16, 1971, in Reseda, California, Feldman seemed destined for a life in show business from the start. His father, Bob Feldman, was a musician, and his mother, Sheila, worked as a cocktail waitress. Raised in a Jewish household, Feldman was thrust into the entertainment world at the tender age of three.

His early years were dominated by a plethora of appearances in commercials and television shows. With over 100 TV commercials under his belt by the age of 10, Feldman’s presence on the small screen was almost ubiquitous. He made notable appearances on hit TV shows such as The Bad News Bears, Mork & Mindy, Cheers, and Eight is Enough. Additionally, Feldman lent his voice to Disney’s animated film The Fox and the Hound (1981), marking his early entry into voice acting.

Breakthrough in Hollywood

Corey Feldman’s breakthrough came in the 1980s when he transitioned from a TV regular to a bona fide movie star. His first major role in Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984) set the stage for future success. Feldman’s career skyrocketed with his role in Gremlins (1984), which grossed a staggering $12.5 million in its first weekend. However, it was The Goonies (1985), where he played “Mouth”, that truly cemented his legacy. Based on a story by Steven Spielberg, the movie became a massive box-office hit, grossing $121 million globally.

The following year, Feldman took on a lead role in Stand By Me (1986), co-starring Jerry O’Connell and River Phoenix, which showcased his acting versatility. His portrayal of Teddy Duchamp was lauded for its emotional depth and authenticity, helping to solidify Feldman as one of the top young actors of his generation. However, one of his most memorable roles came with The Lost Boys (1987), where he starred as Edgar Frog. The cult classic’s success would follow Feldman throughout his career, with the actor returning for two sequels in the late 2000s.

Struggles with Fame and Addiction

Unfortunately, as Feldman’s career flourished, so too did his personal struggles. Like many child stars, the pressure of fame led to substance abuse issues. Feldman’s public battle with drugs began after filming The ‘Burbs (1989), a dark period in his life that saw him lose roles and professional opportunities. Despite these challenges, Feldman continued to act, appearing in less prominent films and working on rebuilding his life.

He attempted a comeback with roles in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III (1993) and the horror film Tales from the Crypt Presents: Bordello of Blood (1996). Yet, his once-bright star was dimmed by tabloid coverage of his personal life and struggles with addiction.

Partnership with Corey Haim

Feldman is perhaps most famously known for his collaboration with fellow child actor Corey Haim. The two became close friends and co-stars, earning the moniker “The Two Coreys.” Together, they starred in several films, including License to Drive (1988) and Dream a Little Dream (1989). Unfortunately, both actors faced personal difficulties, particularly with drug addiction.

Their lives were revisited in the A&E reality show The Two Coreys, which aired from 2007 to 2008. The show provided a glimpse into the personal lives of the two stars and their struggles to reclaim their careers. Sadly, Haim passed away in 2010, further deepening the challenges Feldman faced during this period.

Advocacy and Personal Growth

In recent years, Feldman has become an outspoken advocate for child actors’ rights and a crusader against the rampant abuse within Hollywood. He has publicly spoken about the alleged sexual abuse he endured as a child actor, using his platform to demand accountability and protections for others. His revelations about the darker side of the entertainment industry have sparked important conversations, and Feldman has positioned himself as a staunch protector of the vulnerable in Hollywood.

While his personal struggles were often highly publicized, Feldman has continuously sought to reinvent himself. He has not only remained active in the film industry but also ventured into music. His band, Corey Feldman & The Angels, has released several albums over the years. His musical career, however, has not reached the same level of success as his acting roles, with his crowdfunding campaign for his album Angelic 2 the Core raising only a fraction of the intended amount.

Corey Feldman’s Music Career

Feldman’s foray into music began in the early 1990s, following his initial struggles in Hollywood. His debut album, Love Left (1992), was met with moderate success, but he persisted. He later released Still Searching for Soul with his band, Corey Feldman’s Truth Movement, which helped him reestablish a foothold in the music industry. In 2002, he released Former Child Actor, a solo album that showcased his musical talents and love for rock and pop.

In 2016, Feldman made headlines for his somewhat infamous performance on the Today show, where he promoted his album Angelic 2 the Core. Despite the public criticism of the performance, Feldman stood by his music, continuing to perform live and promote his band. Snoop Dogg and John Carin were among the featured artists on the album.

Reality TV and Other Appearances

In addition to his film and music careers, Corey Feldman has made numerous appearances on reality TV. His participation in The Surreal Life (2003) marked his entry into reality television. In 2012, Feldman appeared on the British show Dancing on Ice and was featured on Border Security: Canada’s Front Line.

One of his more notable stints came in 2016 when Feldman participated in Celebrity Wife Swap with his then-girlfriend, Courtney Ann Mitchell. The show offered a peek into Feldman’s personal life and his attempts to move forward despite his past.

Personal Life

Corey Feldman’s personal life has been tumultuous, marked by multiple marriages and high-profile relationships. His first marriage to actress Vanessa Marcil ended in 1993, and in 2002, he married actress and model Susie Sprague. The couple had a son together before splitting in 2009, finalizing their divorce in 2014. Feldman married Courtney Ann Mitchell in 2016 in a ceremony held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

Conclusion

Despite a rollercoaster career filled with both triumphs and tragedies, Corey Feldman has managed to remain a significant figure in Hollywood. His $1 million net worth might seem modest compared to other stars, but it represents a lifetime of persistence in an unforgiving industry. From his unforgettable roles in 1980s classics to his advocacy for child actors, Feldman’s legacy is far more complex and meaningful than any dollar figure could ever indicate. Corey Feldman’s story is one of resilience, proving that even in the face of immense adversity, one can continue to push forward and create meaningful change.