Cortese's early life unfolded in Provo, Utah, where he spent his formative years attending high school and college. It was during his high school tenure that he discovered his passion for the performing arts, specifically within the drama program. His exceptional aptitude for improvisation, coupled with his quick wit and irreverent humor, earned him a reputation as a standout student. His teacher, recognizing his talent, encouraged him to audition for school productions, which he did with great success.
Upon graduating from high school, Cortese began writing for a local newspaper, utilizing his impressive vocabulary to craft engaging articles that covered the Brigham Young University college basketball team. This experience not only honed his writing skills but also allowed him to develop a keen understanding of the world of journalism.
However, fate had other plans for Cortese. A chance encounter with a neighbor led to a brief foray into the world of finance. Although this venture ultimately proved unsatisfying, his mentor's sage advice to return to his first love, acting, proved pivotal. Cortese heeded this counsel and began taking acting classes in Salt Lake City, where he was soon discovered by filmmaker Rob Diamond.
Diamond cast Cortese in his first film role as Blake, a rugged ex-con eking out a living on a rural ranch in the low-budget production, The Last Page. This breakout performance marked the beginning of a successful acting career, with Cortese subsequently landing the part of Timothy Carter, a narcissistic male model obsessed with his own success, in the short film That's A Wrap.
This critically acclaimed film offered a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of a fictional movie set, showcasing the intricate dynamics between the various members of the production team. Through his nuanced portrayal of Timothy Carter, Cortese demonstrated his remarkable range as an actor, cementing his status as a talented and versatile performer.
