Cory Monteith Makes First Public Appearance Since Leaving Rehab

Cory Monteith has completed rehab and is now in the mood to give something back to society.

The Glee star, who did a stint in rehab in April after admitting a substance abuse problem, made his first public appearance since completing the treatment. Monteith walked the red carpet for the 12th annual Chrysalis Butterfly Ball, a benefit that raises money for homeless and low-earning citizens in California.

Lea Michele, who plays Monteith’s girlfriend both on Glee and in real life, was by his side for the event.

While in rehab Cory Monteith missed the taping of the final two remaining episodes of the year, though he got words of encouragement from producers and the studio behind Glee and had their blessing to enter rehab.

“Cory is a beloved member of the Glee family and we fully support his decision to seek treatment,” said 20th Century Fox, the show’s producer, in a statement. “Everyone at the show wishes him well and looks forward to his return.”

Michele also issued a statement in support of Cory’s decision.

“I love and support Cory and will stand by him through this. I am grateful and proud he made this decision,” she said.

Even Glee creator Ryan Murphy praised Cory Monteith for his decision to enter rehab.

“I am so proud of Cory Monteith and love and support him 100 [percent],” Murphy tweeted Monday.

Monteith has struggled with substance abuse problems. In 2011 he opened up about his problems with substance abuse as a teenager, saying that his family staged an intervention when he was 19 that helped him get back on track. Monteith said he had dropped out of school at age 16 and spent all his time drinking and smoking weed.

“I’m lucky on so many counts –- I’m lucky to be alive,” Monteith said. “I stole a significant amount of money from a family member. I knew I was going to get caught, but I was so desperate I didn’t care.”

After leaving rehab in April, Cory Monteith returned to his native Canada to continue his recovery.