Corey Parker, Beloved Will & Grace Actor, Passes Away at 60 Following Cancer Diagnosis
Corey Parker, the American actor celebrated for his recurring role as Josh on the iconic sitcom Will & Grace, has died at the age of 60. His aunt, Emily Parker, confirmed that he passed away peacefully at his home in Memphis, Tennessee, on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
A Courageous Battle Against Advanced Cancer
Parker had been diagnosed with an advanced stage four metastatic cancer, which led to significant health challenges over the past year. In his final update to fans just weeks before his death, he shared the difficult realities of his treatment. "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 oesophagus, my ability to speak, and my overall orientation," he explained.
He revealed that it had become "hard to text" and he struggled to "formulate speech," with preparations for hospice care already underway. Last year, he underwent a hip replacement surgery as part of his ongoing medical journey.
A Diverse and Memorable Acting Career
Corey Parker rose to fame in the 1980s and enjoyed a varied career across television and film:
- Will & Grace: He played Josh, one of Grace's boyfriends, in multiple episodes of the beloved sitcom.
- Friday the 13th Franchise: Parker appeared in this horror series, showcasing his range beyond comedy.
- Flying Blind: He starred in this cult classic sitcom from the early 1990s, playing an awkward nerd who dates chaotic Alicia, portrayed by Téa Leoni. The show featured other future stars like Lisa Kudrow.
In his later years, Parker transitioned to working as an acting coach, contributing to projects such as the Marvel Universe TV show Ms Marvel and Sun Records.
Family Legacy and Financial Struggles
Parker came from an acting family. His sister, Noelle Parker, appeared in Sisters and later became a producer. His mother was film actress Rocky Parker, who married Patrick Dempsey in the 1990s and passed away in 2014.
Like many actors in recent times, Parker faced financial difficulties due to medical expenses. His family had set up a GoFundMe fundraiser to cover his bills after he became ineligible for SAG insurance. The campaign, which aimed to raise $65,000, described how the diagnosis "turned his family's world upside down." It had garnered over $59,000 in donations, with Parker expressing gratitude for the "generosity and all of the love and care" from supporters.
In February, he disclosed that his health insurance premium was $1,485 monthly, a burden that was challenging to manage. His family paid tribute, stating, "We love this man, this artist, this teacher. There is no one like him."
Corey Parker's passing marks the loss of a talented performer whose work brought joy to audiences and whose resilience in facing illness inspired many. His legacy in entertainment and his impact as a coach will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
