Corey Parker, ‘Will & Grace’ Actor, Dies at 60

Corey Parker, a veteran actor known for his roles in the television series Will & Grace and the slasher film Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, died on Thursday, March 5, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 60 following a battle with cancer.

A Career Spanning Decades

Parker began his acting career in television commercials at the age of four and made his onscreen debut in a 1983 episode of As the World Turns. He subsequently appeared in numerous television shows, including The New Leave It to Beaver, Thirtysomething, Flying Blind, Touched by an Angel, Love Boat: The Next Wave, Nashville, and Will & Grace, where he had a recurring role as one of Grace’s boyfriends.

Film Roles and Acting Instruction

Parker similarly starred in several films, including 9 1/2 Weeks, Biloxi Blues, Big Man on Campus, Encino Woman, and The Rainmaker. Beyond his performance work, Parker was a dedicated acting instructor, teaching at Duke University, Rhodes College, and the University of Memphis. He also contributed his expertise to projects such as CMT’s Sun Records and the Disney+ MCU series Ms. Marvel.

Family Tributes

Parker’s sister, Noelle, paid tribute to his talent, passion, and devotion to teaching acting.

Recent Health Battle

Corey Parker was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic cancer after undergoing hip replacement surgery. He shared updates on his condition via GoFundMe, noting that even as his body initially responded to medication, the cancer eventually spread, affecting his bones and impacting his ability to speak and write. He was preparing for hospice care when he passed away.