Chris Colfer grew up performing in community and regional theatre in Clovis, CA. At age 14, he assistant-directed a theatrical benefit for Valley Children's Hospital. Colfer was very active throughout high school: he was involved in drama, was the president of the writer's club, was editor of the school literary magazine and was a speech and debate champion. He also wrote, directed and starred in a musical spoof of "Sweeney Todd," titled "Shirley Todd," at the end of his senior year.

Colfer lives in Los Angeles.