Actor Corey Parker, remembered for his role in the sitcom Will & Grace, has died at the age of 60. His representative, Chris Ahuja, confirmed that Parker passed away on March 5 in Memphis after battling cancer, surrounded by family. Ahuja honored him with a heartfelt tribute, saying, “Corey Parker was an incredible human being. He was a friend, a mentor and a deeply supportive soul to so many people in the acting community.” He added that Parker’s “generosity, wisdom and dedication to helping actors grow in their craft” inspired many and that “He will be deeply missed.”
Before his passing, Parker had spoken openly about his illness. After undergoing hip replacement surgery, he was diagnosed with advanced metastatic cancer and later described the condition as terminal. In one of his final updates, he shared that he was receiving radiation therapy to reduce severe pain in his arm and hips. However, the treatment also affected his esophagus and made speaking clearly difficult. During this period, he revealed that his family had begun preparing his home for hospice care.
Parker was born on July 8, 1965, in New York City, the son of actress Rochelle Natalie Parker. Growing up around the entertainment industry, he began appearing in television commercials at just four years old. His interest in acting grew as he trained with respected theater organizations such as the Actors Studio and the Ensemble Studio Theatre.
During the late 1980s and 1990s, Parker built a steady career in television and film. In addition to his role on Will & Grace, he appeared in series like Flying Blind, Thirtysomething, and Touched by an Angel. His film credits included Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, Biloxi Blues, and 9½ Weeks, showing his versatility across genres.
Later in life, Parker focused on mentoring young performers as an acting coach. Many students credited him with helping them develop confidence and skill. A message shared through a fundraising campaign described his influence: “Corey has a unique gift — he reminds us that we are enough. That we are worthy.” Through his guidance, many actors advanced in their careers, with some later receiving major honors including Tony, SAG, and Emmy awards.
