Dancing with Corey

What is something surprising or interesting that most people might not know about you?

I don’t like chocolate.

What got you started in dance?

I started off as a gymnast and transitioned into dance around 10 or 11. I used to watch Britney Spears music videos and was in awe of the way she moved, I wanted to be just like her.

What is your all time favorite song to dance to?

“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” - Whitney Houston

What is your favorite style of dance?

It’s a tie between contemporary and jazz funk. With contemporary, I am able to express emotions through moments and challenge my body to push itself to new extremes. Jazz funk is a completely different type of style where I can have fun exploring different types of characters and incorporate my attitude.

What was the funnest dancing job that you did?

I had a blast filming MTV’s “Beyond Dance”, which was a reality dance competition TV show. It was 12 dancers to a house and competed in extreme dance challenges such as dancing on the side of skyscrapers to performing on treadmills moving at full speed. Each week we would vote someone off the show until there was one winner. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and my favorite job to date.

What inspires you to create for YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram?

I am always wanting to create new and exciting content. I love being creative and seeing all my wild idea’s come to life. Staying busy is therapeutic for me, especially now during these months in quarantine. I am lucky to be doing all that I’ve dreamed of, so even if I’m feeling stuck, I find a way to push through.

You released an OP-Ed in OUT Magazine regarding your sobriety, what brought you to do so?

I felt ready to open up about my sobriety and wanted to give back and help those who were struggling, especially during quarantine. When I was getting sober, community and staying connected to the program was so important to me. So when I heard the isolation and economic devastation of COVID-19 contributed to an increase in overdoses (overdoses increased 42% in the month of May alone) I decided I had to do something. So, I shared my story of addiction and recovery in OUT Magazine to offer some insight and then created “Isolated in Sobriety” which is a live series on my Instagram (@corey_obrien) where I speak about all things sobriety. I have had different celebrities join me to share their stories of hope and recovery.

Why is breaking down the stigma surrounding addiction important to you?

184 Americans die each day due to overdoses while only 1 in 10 Americans ever receive treatment. I believe eliminating the stigma surrounding addiction would change these statistics, which is why it is very important to me. Effective ways to combat stigma would be politely correcting misconceptions, listening while withholding judgement, treat people with respect and seek/share resources. Often the language we use contributes to stigma. By choosing alternate language, you can help break down the negative stereotype associated with addiction.

What advice would you give to people struggling with addiction?

Do not be afraid to ask for help. Recovery is possible.

As a gay person, how was pride for you this year?

I found celebrating Pride while in quarantine to be inspiring and educational. I loved seeing all the different things companies & organizations were doing to keep Pride alive along with fighting for Black Lives Matter. My boyfriend and I went to a protest and have been getting involved with different organizations to do all that we can to continue fighting AGAINST racism and fighting FOR equality.

Your boyfriend is Ryan K. Russell. How long have you guys been together and where did you meet?

We met online and then our first date was at a coffee shop in Hollywood.

Where were you born? 

Phillipsburg, New Jersey

What was it like growing up gay for you?

Growing up gay was emotional, challenging & eye opening. Kids were cruel but at a certain age I decided not to acknowledge the negativity. I grew thick skin and learned how to stand up for myself which ultimately I am thankful for.

What 5 words would you use to describe yourself?

Spontaneous

Determined

Outspoken

Resilient