Corey O'Brien: 5 Shocking Facts About The Comedian Bridging Political Divides On 'The Red Tour'

Corey O'Brien has rapidly transitioned from a professional dancer and social media sensation to one of the most talked-about voices in modern stand-up comedy, fearlessly tackling social and political issues with sharp, unapologetic humor. As of late 2025, his career is hitting a new peak with the ongoing "The Red Tour," a bold, cross-country venture designed to bring progressive, queer comedy into the very heart of conservative America.

This article dives deep into the life and career of the American comedian and LGBTQ+ advocate, exploring the personal struggles, high-profile relationship, and unique performance style that have cemented his status as a digital creator with nearly two million followers and a powerful figure on the comedy circuit. His journey from overcoming substance use to becoming a celebrated voice is a testament to the power of authenticity in comedy.

Corey O'Brien: The Comedian's Biography and Professional Profile

Corey O'Brien's rise to fame is a unique blend of traditional performance arts, reality television exposure, and modern digital celebrity. He leverages his background to create a dynamic and visually engaging stand-up experience that is a stark contrast to many of his contemporaries.

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• Full Name: Corey O'Brien
• Profession: American Comedian, Stand-up Artist, LGBTQ+ Advocate, Social Media Creator, Digital Creator
• Age: 34 (Based on recent reports)
• Notable Career Start: Began as a professional dancer, specializing in jazz, funk, and acrobatics, performing on major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean.
• Television Appearance: Star on MTV's reality series, "Beyond Dance."
• Social Media Presence: Nearly 2 million followers combined across major platforms like TikTok and Instagram (under the handle @corey_obrien).
• Relationship Status: Dating Ryan Russell, the NFL's first openly bisexual player.
• Current Major Project (2025): "The Red Tour" (an ongoing national comedy tour).

1. The Red Tour: Taking Unapologetically Queer Comedy to Conservative States

The most significant and current chapter of Corey O'Brien's career is his ambitious national show, "The Red Tour." This tour is not just a series of stand-up dates; it is a cultural and political experiment designed to bridge the widening divide in American discourse through laughter.

Comedy as an Act of Resistance

O'Brien, who openly identifies as a "hardcore liberal, gay Democrat," deliberately chooses to perform his sharp, unapologetic comedy in states often referred to as "Red States" or conservative areas. The intention is to challenge the notion that progressive comedians are afraid to get political on stage and to prove that humor can be a unifying force, even when discussing polarizing topics.

The Red Tour's success is rooted in O'Brien's ability to create a safe space where audiences, regardless of their political affiliation, can share a laugh. By combining discussions with his comedic material, the live show leaves audiences with something to think about, even if they don't agree with his viewpoint.

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2. The Shocking Transition from Professional Dancer to Stand-Up Star

Before he was a comedian, Corey O'Brien spent a decade honing his craft as a professional dancer. This background is a crucial, defining element of his stage presence and performance style.

From Royal Caribbean to MTV's Beyond Dance

O'Brien began studying dance as a child, eventually performing on Royal Caribbean cruise ships, which provided him with invaluable experience performing for diverse, live audiences. His dance career culminated in a starring role on the MTV reality series, "Beyond Dance." This foundation in performance arts means his stand-up is rarely static.

He seamlessly integrates his decade-long dance career into his comedic sets, providing his audience with a unique, energetic, and visually engaging show. This flair for performance helps his crowd work and quick-hit moments keep the room buzzing, demonstrating exceptional timing and stage command.

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3. Overcoming Addiction: His Path to Sobriety and Comedy

One of the most powerful and personal aspects of Corey O'Brien's story is his candid discussion of overcoming substance use and addiction. This vulnerability forms a core part of his comedic and advocacy work.

Sobriety at 21 and the Power of Authenticity

O'Brien went to rehab for substance use at the age of 21. Building a successful comedy career after achieving sobriety has become a significant part of his narrative. He uses his platform to openly discuss his journey, blending humor with the serious realities of addiction and recovery.

His willingness to be authentic about his life experiences—including his journey to sobriety, his sexuality, and his political views—is what resonates deeply with his audience, both on the stage and across his social media platforms. This blend of raw honesty and humor is a hallmark of his comedic style, making his material both hilarious and deeply relatable.

4. Relationship with NFL Star Ryan Russell: A Power Couple in Advocacy

Corey O'Brien is in a high-profile relationship with former NFL player Ryan Russell, who made history as the first openly bisexual man in the NFL. Their relationship is a powerful entity in the LGBTQ+ advocacy space.

Spilling the Details on Dating an NFL Trailblazer

O'Brien has shared hilarious and heartfelt details about dating Russell, admitting that when they first started dating, he was initially unaware of the seriousness and scale of Russell's football career. The couple's public relationship has been celebrated for its visibility, positioning them as a prominent power couple in the world of sports and entertainment.

Their joint appearances and interviews, where they discuss their relationship, O'Brien's sobriety, and Russell's journey coming out, further amplify their message of acceptance and authenticity. They have used their combined influence to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in both the entertainment and professional sports industries.

5. The Digital Creator Phenomenon: TikTok and the Upcoming Comedy Special

Beyond the stage, Corey O'Brien is a massive force on social media, leveraging his TikTok and Instagram presence to connect with a global audience. This digital fame is what fuels much of his live show's popularity.

Viral Content and the Next Big Project

With nearly two million followers, O'Brien's content ranges from dance challenges (a nod to his professional background) to quick-hit comedy and political commentary. His videos often "Serve the TRUTH" and deliver his perspective with rapid-fire comedic timing. This constant engagement keeps him fresh and relevant to a younger, digitally native audience.

Furthermore, O'Brien has confirmed that he has a new, highly anticipated comedy special in the works. While the title and specific release platform are yet to be officially announced, the buzz surrounding this project indicates it will be the next major milestone in his career, following the success of his ongoing "The Red Tour" in 2025. Fans are eagerly awaiting details on the special, which is expected to capture the same raw, politically charged, and hilarious energy he brings to his live shows.