Actor Corey Parker, best known for his appearance in the popular sitcom Will & Grace, has died at the age of 60.

According to his representative, Chris Ahuja, Parker passed away on March 5 in Memphis after a long struggle with cancer. He was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his death.

Ahuja confirmed the news in a statement to People magazine, remembering Parker not only as a talented actor but also as someone who deeply influenced many people in the acting world.

“He was an extraordinary person,” Ahuja said. “Corey was a friend, a mentor, and someone who supported countless actors throughout their careers. I was fortunate to know him personally, and like so many others, I admired his kindness, wisdom, and passion for helping actors develop their craft. He will be greatly missed.”

His fight with cancer

Parker had previously shared that he had been diagnosed with advanced metastatic cancer after undergoing hip replacement surgery. In one of his final updates posted in February, he revealed that the disease had become terminal.

He explained that he had begun radiation therapy to relieve intense pain caused by the cancer, particularly in his hips and arm.

However, the treatment also affected his esophagus, which made speaking clearly increasingly difficult. Around that time, Parker mentioned that his family had started preparing his home for hospice care.

Early life and introduction to acting

Corey Parker was born on July 8, 1965, in New York City. His mother, actress Rochelle Natalie Parker, exposed him to the entertainment industry from a young age.

Reports suggest that Parker began appearing in television commercials at just four years old. As he grew older, he continued to pursue acting and trained with respected theater organizations such as Actors Studio and Ensemble Studio Theatre.

Career in television and film

During the late 1980s and 1990s, Parker established a steady career in both television and film.

Many viewers remember him for portraying Grace’s boyfriend, Josh, in Will & Grace. Over the years, he also appeared in several other television shows, including:

• Flying Blind
• Thirtysomething
• Touched by an Angel

Parker also appeared in a number of films, such as:

• Friday the 13th: A New Beginning
• Biloxi Blues
• 9½ Weeks

His performances across both television and film demonstrated his versatility as an actor.

Later years as an acting mentor

In the later stages of his career, Parker dedicated much of his time to teaching and mentoring aspiring actors. He worked as an acting coach and helped train performers who later appeared in major productions, including projects like Ms. Marvel and Sun Records.

Many of his students praised his ability to encourage growth and build confidence in young performers.

A message shared through a GoFundMe campaign created to support him described the powerful impact he had on his students.

“Corey had a special ability to remind people that they were enough and that they deserved success. Through his coaching and mentorship, many actors strengthened not only their skills but also their confidence and self-belief.”

Several of the actors he mentored went on to receive major industry honors, including Tony Awards, SAG Awards, and Emmy Awards.

Remembering Corey Parker

Beyond his roles on screen, Corey Parker is being remembered as a mentor, teacher, and supporter of young talent in the entertainment world.

His impact reached far beyond television and film, shaping the careers of many actors who credit him with helping them discover their confidence and artistic voice.

Parker is survived by his family as well as a large community of performers whose lives he influenced.

Rest in peace, Corey Parker. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. 🌹