No, it’s not an April Fools' joke—Glee hunk Cory Monteith has checked into rehab for substance abuse. The 30-year-old Canadian actor had one prior stint in rehab at age 19, and has been open about his addiction in the media. Glee is currently filming its fourth season, but no word has been released about how Monteith’s absence could affect the show’s shooting schedule.
“[Monteith] has voluntarily admitted himself to a treatment facility for substance addiction,” his representatives said in a statement. “He graciously asks for your respect and privacy as he takes the necessary steps towards recovery."
Glee star and Broadway.com Audience Choice Award winner Lea Michele, who has been dating Monteith for the last year, will continue to stay by his side. “I love and support Cory and will stand by him through this," she told People magazine. "I am grateful and proud he made this decision."
Monteith currently stars as football-player-turned-glee-clubber Finn Hudson on Glee, and earned 2011 a Teen Choice Award for his performance. His film and TV credits include Sisters & Brothers, Monte Carlo, Breaking the Girl, The Boy Next Door, The Cleveland Show, The Simpsons, The Assistants and The Glee Project.