Chris Burke

Chris Burke is an actor with Down syndrome who became renowned for his lead role on the TV series "Life Goes On." Encouraged to pursue acting by his parents, Burke made his debut in the 1987 made-for-TV movie "Desperate," and won the part of Corky Thatcher on "Life Goes On" in '89. The first TV series to star an actor with Down syndrome, the show, set in the Chicago suburbs, garnered acclaim for its thoughtful approach to the condition of Burke's character, leading to numerous accolades and a Golden Globe nomination for the actor in '90.

Portraying Corky for the entire four-season run of "Life Goes On," Burke went on to act in the miniseries "Heaven & Hell: North & South, Book III" and appear in the episodes of the dramas "Touched by a Angel" and "ER." In subsequent years, Burke has become a well-known speaker on the subject of Down syndrome.