Corey Feldman's Past His Past And Steps Into The Spotlight On ‘Dancing With the Stars’

Dancing competitions have a way of bringing unexpected names back into the spotlight, and this season of Dancing With the Stars is no different. Corey Feldman, once a staple of 1980s films, is stepping onto the ballroom floor to show a new side of himself.

Now 54, Feldman became a household name through movies like The Goonies, Stand by Me, and The Lost Boys. Decades later, he’s joining season 34 of the hit ABC series as a celebrity contestant. He’s been paired with professional dancer Jenna Johnson, who enters the season as the reigning champion after winning last year with The Bachelor’s Joey Graziadei.

Feldman is quick to credit his partner’s expertise.

“I’m very grateful that I have somebody so eloquent when it comes to the dance floor, and knowing everything—the moves, the rhythms, the styles, and the technique,” he told Us Weekly.

“She’s the reigning queen, so I’m very grateful that I was lucky enough to land her as my partner.”

Though Feldman has been dancing for much of his life, ballroom has presented a different challenge.

“I’ve been dancing my whole life professionally, but in a totally different style,” he explained. “In all those situations, the choreographers were there to work around what I do. For me to take the back seat and turn it over and say, ‘It’s all you, show me. Lead me,’ I’m excited.”

Johnson, meanwhile, says she’s looking forward to guiding him through the process.

“We’re just getting started, so we have a lot of work to do, but I think people will be so excited to root for Corey and to see his journey on the show,” she said.

From child actor to teen idol, Feldman built a one-of-a-kind Hollywood career.

Feldman’s career has been anything but ordinary. He started acting at age three, appearing in commercials and TV shows before moving into films like Gremlins and Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter.

His role in The Goonies launched him into teen stardom, followed by hits with his late friend Corey Haim. The duo became pop-culture fixtures through films like License to Drive and Dream a Little Dream.

Corey Feldman

Feldman battled addiction and career struggles, later becoming an advocate for abuse survivors in Hollywood.

But fame also came with hardships. Feldman faced substance abuse issues, arrests, and a faltering career in the 1990s.

The loss of Haim in 2010 marked a turning point. Feldman spoke openly about the darker side of child stardom, later releasing his memoir Coreyography and the 2020 documentary (My) Truth: The Rape of Two Coreys. He has since become a vocal advocate for survivors of abuse in Hollywood.

Corey Feldman

Feldman juggles new music projects with intense rehearsals for Dancing with the Stars.

Alongside advocacy, Feldman has pursued music and continues to release new work. This fall, he has three EPs lined up and a new artist debuting on his CiFi Records label.

Still, it’s DWTS that’s consuming most of his energy right now. Daily rehearsals have been grueling, but he sees it as a chance to grow.

“It’s a lot of work. But I’m grateful. I’m grateful to learn. I am grateful to be a student. It’s nice.”Corey Feldman

Navigating Fame and Mental Health

Corey Feldman's journey through fame and personal challenges highlights the complex relationship between celebrity and mental health. Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, states, "The pressure of public scrutiny can intensify mental health struggles, making it crucial for celebrities to prioritize their well-being." She emphasizes that public figures often face immense scrutiny, which can exacerbate existing mental health issues. Therapists recommend building a supportive network and practicing self-care techniques to manage stress effectively. Engaging in activities like mindfulness and maintaining boundaries can help in navigating fame while preserving mental well-being.

Feldman's participation in 'Dancing with the Stars' serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for personal reinvention. Experts suggest that engaging in new experiences can stimulate growth and healing. According to James Clear, author of 'Atomic Habits', setting small, achievable goals can significantly boost self-confidence.

He advises individuals to focus on progress rather than perfection, which can be particularly beneficial for those in the public eye. By celebrating small wins, celebrities like Feldman can reclaim their narrative while inspiring others who face similar challenges.

Corey Feldman’s decision to join Dancing With the Stars feels like more than just a TV appearance. For someone who has lived through both extraordinary success and deeply personal challenges, stepping onto the ballroom floor represents resilience and reinvention.

His partnership with Jenna Johnson gives him a chance to show a new side of himself, while audiences will see more than nostalgia—they’ll watch a performer determined to keep moving forward, both literally and figuratively.

Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars premieres September 16 on ABC, with Feldman ready to step into the ballroom spotlight once again.

Psychological Insights & Implications

Corey Feldman's return to the spotlight through dance reflects not only a resurgence of his career but also a broader conversation about mental health in the entertainment industry. As Psychology Today notes, resilience plays a crucial role in overcoming setbacks, especially for public figures.

Ultimately, the journey of reinvention can be empowering, allowing individuals to redefine their paths while emphasizing the importance of mental well-being. Encouraging open discussions about mental health and support systems is vital for fostering a healthier environment in the entertainment world.