The Life and Career of Corey Haim
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cdteliot
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Corey Haim, a Canadian actor who rose to fame as a teen heartthrob in the 1980s, starred in iconic films like "The Lost Boys" and "Lucas" before struggling with addiction later in life. Known for his charismatic performances and on-screen partnership with Corey Feldman, Haim's promising career was cut short by his untimely death in 2010 at the age of 38.
Haim's Early Life and Career
people.com
Corey Ian Haim was born on December 23, 1971, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to Judy and Bernie Haim
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. A shy child, Haim's mother enrolled him in drama classes to help him build confidence1
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. Initially more interested in sports and comic books, Haim's interest in acting grew after watching his sister, Carol, audition for roles2
. By age 10, he began appearing in commercials and soon landed his first significant role in the Canadian television series "The Edison Twins" (1982-1986)1
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. This early exposure to acting set the stage for his subsequent success in Hollywood.5 sources
Corey Haim's Breakout Role in Lucas
imdb.com
Corey Haim's breakout role came in the 1986 film "Lucas," where he played the titular character, a socially awkward high school student who falls for a cheerleader named Maggie, portrayed by Kerri Green
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. Directed by David Seltzer, the film also featured performances by Charlie Sheen and Winona Ryder, marking Ryder's film debut2
. Haim's portrayal of Lucas was widely praised, with Roger Ebert giving the film four out of four stars and highlighting its focus on the genuine emotions and struggles of teenagers2
. Despite its critical acclaim, "Lucas" was not a box office success, grossing $8.2 million against a $6 million budget2
. Haim's performance earned him a Young Artist Award nomination and solidified his status as a rising star in Hollywood4
.5 sources
Corey Haim's Career Peak
imdb.com
Corey Haim's career peaked in the late 1980s with notable films such as "License to Drive" (1988) and "Dream a Little Dream" (1989), both of which he starred in alongside Corey Feldman
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. These films solidified his status as a teen heartthrob, with Haim receiving over 2,000 fan letters weekly and frequently appearing in teen magazines like "Tiger Beat" and "Bop"3
. His signature lopsided smile and boyish charm made him a favorite among adolescent audiences. "License to Drive" was particularly successful, showcasing Haim's comedic talents and further cementing his popularity1
. Despite his rising fame, Haim's struggles with addiction began to surface during this period, impacting his career trajectory2
.5 sources
Corey Haim's Later Years: Ongoing Struggles with Addiction Despite Rehab Attempts
en.wikipedia.org
In his later years, Corey Haim continued to battle addiction, despite numerous attempts at rehabilitation. He was admitted to rehab more than 15 times, struggling with dependencies on substances like cocaine, Valium, and various prescription drugs
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. Haim's addiction issues were compounded by financial difficulties, leading him to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and even attempt to sell his hair and teeth on eBay out of desperation2
. In 2008, after a series of relapses, Haim moved back to Toronto to live with his mother, hoping to find stability and support2
. Despite these efforts, his health continued to decline, and he was hospitalized multiple times for drug-related issues, including a drug-induced stroke in 20014
. Tragically, Haim passed away in 2010 at the age of 38, with an autopsy revealing pneumonia as the cause of death, though his long history of drug addiction cast a shadow over the circumstances2
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Related
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How did Corey Haim's addiction affect his relationships
What were the challenges Corey Haim faced when trying to stay sober
How did Corey Haim's health issues impact his daily life
What support systems did Corey Haim have during his struggles
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