May 11 marks a sombre day in Lea Michele’s calendar, it’s the birthday of her late boyfriend and Glee co-star Cory Monteith. To commemorate the actor, she gave him a touching tribute.
On what should have been a day of celebration, instead the talented brunette tweeted a photo of her fallen beau.
“I know you’re serenading everyone right now. We love you Cory! Happy birthday,” she penned.
The 28-year-old actress shared a photo of the late star playing on the drums, highlighting his love for music, a passion they both shared.
Cory tragically died in July 2013 following an accidental heroin overdose in a Canadian hotel room. The actor was a household name on the hit show Glee portraying jock, Finn Hudson.
In the past, Cory was open about his long-term battle with substance abuse.
Before his death, Cory was on the road to recovery. With the support of his Glee family and show creator, Ryan Murphy, by his side the actor entered a drug rehabilitation centre.
Lea and Cory met on the set of the show in 2009 and made their relationship public in 2012, emulating their character’s on-screen love.
They remained together until his death a year-and-a-half later.
Earlier this year Glee aired its final episode after six seasons and the show’s creators honoured their late co-star by naming the fictional High School’s much loved auditorium after Finn.
As the show wrapped after 121 episodes the cast took home some mementos from set, with Lea cherishing the now-framed jersey that was a staple in Finn Hudson’s wardrobe.
The actress has since found love again with her current boyfriend Matthew Paetz, who has been a pillar of strength as she grieves her former love.