Actor Corey Parker, known for his role in the hit sitcom Will & Grace, has died at the age of 60. He passed away on March 5 in Memphis, Tennessee, after battling cancer, his representative Chris Ahuja confirmed. Parker died surrounded by family.
He had been diagnosed with advanced metastatic cancer following a hip replacement surgery. In a final update on February 17, Parker described the illness as terminal and shared that he had undergone radiation to ease pain in his arm and hips while preparing his home for hospice care.
Born in New York City on July 8, 1965, Parker began acting as a child, appearing in commercials at age four. He later trained in performing arts and became a member of the Actors Studio and Ensemble Studio Theater.
He was best known for playing Grace’s boyfriend, Josh, on Will & Grace, and also appeared in shows like Flying Blind, Thirtysomething, and Touched by an Angel, as well as films including Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, Biloxi Blues, and 9½ Weeks.
Later in his career, Parker became a respected acting coach, mentoring many young performers. His students praised him for helping them grow in confidence and craft, with several going on to win major awards such as Tonys, SAG Awards, and Emmys.