Corey Parker, Actor and Acting Coach, Dies at 60

Corey Parker, a versatile actor who appeared in films like Friday the 13th: A New Beginning and television shows including Will & Grace, has died after a battle with cancer. He was 60 years vintage.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born on July 8, 1965, in New York City, Parker began his acting career at the age of four, appearing in television commercials. He attended the High School of Performing Arts in New York City and later committed to acting full-time. He was a member of the Actors Studio and the Ensemble Studio Theater [1].

Notable Roles

Parker’s film credits include Biloxi Blues, Willy/Milly, White Palace, and How I Got into College. He also appeared in Friday the 13th: A New Beginning [1]. On television, he had roles in Thirtysomething, Broadway Bound, Blue Skies, Love Boat: The Next Wave, and co-starred with Téa Leoni in the 1992-93 Fox sitcom Flying Blind [1]. He is also remembered for his recurring role as Josh on Will & Grace [1].

Later Career and Coaching

In later years, Parker transitioned into acting coaching, serving as a guest artist at Rhodes College and the University of Memphis. He was the official acting coach for CMT’s Sun Records and also worked on Ms. Marvel [1]. He also taught at HB Studio [1].

Recent Illness and Passing

Parker passed away on March 5, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee, after being diagnosed with advanced stage four metastatic cancer following a hip replacement late last year [1]. He shared a heartbreaking update on February 18, describing the impact of radiation on his ability to speak and overall orientation [1]. Prior to his death, a fundraiser was established to help with mounting medical expenses [1].

Family Legacy

Parker came from a creative family; his mother, Rochelle Natalie “Rocky” Parker, and his sister, Noelle, were also actors. His mother passed away in 2014 [1].