[1] Born in Fairfield, Connecticut, Finlay began his dance training at the age of 8, at Ballet Academy East in New York City.
While still a member of the corps de ballet, he danced the title role in George Balanchine's Apollo.
[2] In September 2018, Finlay was sued by his 20-year-old ex-girlfriend, Alexandra Waterbury, for allegedly sharing nude photos of her and other female dancers with male company members without their consent.
[5][6][7][8] Finlay resigned from the New York City Ballet in August 2018 during the company's investigation.
[6][8] Featured roles since joining the New York City Ballet:[2] In 2010, Finlay became the first recipient[9] of the Clive Barnes Award[2][10] for dance.