Corey Parker Dies: ‘Friday the 13th’ & ‘Will & Grace’ Actor Dies at 60 After Cancer Battle

Corey Parker, a versatile actor whose career spanned decades in film and television, most notably including roles in “Friday the 13th: A New Beginning” and as a recurring character on the beloved sitcom “Will & Grace,” has died. He was 60 years ancient. Parker passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee, following a battle with cancer, his family confirmed to multiple news outlets.

Parker’s death marks a significant loss for the entertainment industry, not only for his on-screen contributions but likewise for his dedication to mentoring aspiring actors. He transitioned into coaching later in his career, working on productions such as “Sun Records” and “Ms. Marvel,” sharing his expertise and passion for the craft. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike, recognizing his talent, and generosity.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Born on July 8, 1965, in New York City, Corey Parker was immersed in the performing arts from a young age, the son of actress Rochelle Natalie “Rocky” Parker. The Hollywood Reporter notes that he began acting in television commercials at just four years old. He honed his skills at the prestigious High School of Performing Arts in New York City and was one of the youngest individuals accepted into the esteemed Actors Studio at the age of 20.

Parker’s early film work included a role in the 1985 horror film “Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning,” where he played Pete. He continued to build his filmography with appearances in “9 1/2 Weeks” (1986), a romantic drama starring Kim Basinger, and “Biloxi Blues” (1988), directed by Mike Nichols and featuring Matthew Broderick. Memoritree.com details these early roles, highlighting his versatility as an actor.

Television Success and “Will & Grace”

The 1990s saw Parker finding success on television. He co-starred with Téa Leoni in the Fox sitcom “Flying Blind” (1992-1993), playing Neil Barash. He also appeared in “Love Boat: The Next Wave.” However, he is perhaps best remembered for his recurring role as Josh, one of Grace Adler’s (Debra Messing) boyfriends, on the hit NBC sitcom “Will & Grace.” He appeared in five episodes of the show, becoming a familiar face to audiences.

Transition to Acting Coach and Recent Health Battles

As his on-screen career evolved, Parker dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring young performers. He worked on numerous productions, including “Sun Records” and “Ms. Marvel,” helping actors refine their craft. This transition showcased his commitment to the future of the industry and his desire to give back.

In the fall of 2025, Parker underwent hip replacement surgery. Following the procedure, pathology reports revealed a diagnosis of advanced stage 4 metastatic cancer, according to reports. A GoFundMe campaign was established by his creative partners and students to help cover the mounting medical expenses and support his family during this difficult time. Parker himself shared updates on his health, detailing the challenges he faced with pain management and the impact of radiation treatment on his ability to speak and maintain his orientation. He noted that preparations were being made for hospice care.

“The radiation that was intended to reduce the pain from the cancer in my arm and in my hips did help to reduce the pain in those areas but also impacted my esophagus, my ability to speak and my overall orientation,” Parker wrote in a health update. “It is hard for me to text and not easy to formulate speech. We have started to prepare the house for the time when we will begin hospice care. Thank you enough for all of the love and care.”

Legacy and Impact

Corey Parker’s passing has been met with widespread grief and admiration. He is remembered not only for his talent as an actor but also for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to nurturing the next generation of performers. His sister, Noelle Parker, shared a heartfelt statement via BGB Studio, celebrating his “incredible talent, unparalleled passion and joy in the work and in his family, his huge gift for and devotion to teaching, his generosity, his love.”

Parker’s mother, Rocky Parker, was also an actress and was married to actor Patrick Dempsey in the late 1980s, according to National Today. His sister, Noelle Parker, is also an actor.

Key Takeaways

• Corey Parker, known for roles in “Friday the 13th” and “Will & Grace,” died on March 5, 2026, at age 60 after battling cancer.
• He transitioned from acting to coaching, mentoring young performers on shows like “Sun Records” and “Ms. Marvel.”
• Parker’s family and colleagues have praised his talent, generosity, and dedication to the craft.
• A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help with his medical expenses during his illness.

As of March 8, 2026, details regarding memorial services have not been publicly announced. Further updates will be provided as they become available. The entertainment community mourns the loss of a talented actor and dedicated mentor, whose contributions will be remembered for years to come.

We encourage readers to share their memories and condolences in the comments below.