Actor Corey Parker, known for his role in the hit sitcom Will & Grace, has sadly passed away at the age of 60.
Parker died on March 5 in Memphis, Tennessee, after battling cancer. His representative, Chris Ahuja, confirmed the news to People magazine, noting that he passed away surrounded by family.
“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,” Ahuja said.
“I had the privilege of knowing him personally, and like countless others, I was inspired by his generosity, wisdom, and dedication to helping actors grow in their craft. He will be deeply missed.”
Corey Parker had previously been diagnosed with advanced Stage 5 metastatic cancer following a hip replacement surgery.
In a final update shared on February 17, Parker described the cancer as “terminal.” He explained that he had undergone radiation intended to “reduce the pain from the cancer in my arm and in my hips.”
‘Will & Grace’ actor Corey Parker dies at 60
However, he said the treatment affected his “esophagus, my ability to speak, and my overall orientation.” Parker also wrote that he and his family had been preparing his home for hospice care.
Born in New York City on July 8, 1965, to actress Rochelle Natalie “Rocky” Parker, Corey seemed destined for a life in show business. He began acting early, appearing in television commercials at age 4.
After studying performing arts, he pursued acting professionally and became a member of the Actors Studio and Ensemble Studio Theatre.
He played Grace’s boyfriend, Josh, on Will & Grace and appeared in numerous other television shows, including Flying Blind, Thirtysomething, and Touched by an Angel. Parker also worked in film, with credits including Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, Biloxi Blues, and 9½ Weeks.
Praised by acting students
Later in his career, Parker became an acting coach, using his experience to train young performers. He worked on projects such as Ms. Marvel and Sun Records. According to a GoFundMe created for him, his students have gone on to win Tony Awards, SAG Awards, and even Emmy Awards.
“Corey has a unique gift — he reminds us that we are enough. That we are worthy. Through his guidance and training, countless actors have not only grown in their craft but have also rediscovered their confidence, power, and self-worth,” his students wrote.
“For years, Corey has been our cheerleader, mentor, and inspiration, shaping our careers and changing our lives in ways we could never have imagined.”
Rest in peace, Corey Parker. Our thoughts are with his family.
