Actor Corey Parker, known for his role in the hit sitcom Will & Grace, has sadly passed away. He was 60 years old.
Parker passed away on March 5 in Memphis, Tennessee, after battling cancer. Chris Ahuja, his representative, confirmed the news to People Magazine. He died surrounded by his family.
“Corey Parker was an incredible human being. He was a friend, a mentor and a deeply supportive soul to so many people in the acting community,” Ahuja said.
“I had the privilege of knowing him personally, and like countless others, I was inspired by his generosity, wisdom and dedication to helping actors grow in their craft. He will be deeply missed.”
Corey Parker had previously been diagnosed with advanced Stage 5 metastatic cancer after a hip replacement surgery.
In a final update shared on February 17, Parker described the cancer as “terminal.” The actor explained he had undergone radiation, which was intended to “reduce the pain from the cancer in my arm and in my hips.”
‘Will & Grace’ actor Corey Parker dies at 60
However, instead, it impacted his “esophagus, my ability to speak and my overall orientation.” Moreover, Corey Parker wrote that his time had been spent preparing his house for hospice care. He also wrote at this time that his family had been preparing the house for hospice.
Born in New York City on July 8, 1965, as the son of actress Rochelle Natalie “Rocky” Parker,” Corey was destined for a life in show business. He began his acting career at an early age, appearing in television commercials at 4.
He pursued a career in acting after studying performing arts, and was a member of the Actors Studio and Ensemble Studio Theater.
He starred as Grace’s boyfriend, Josh, on the hit sitcom Will & Grace and appeared in many other television shows, including Flying Blind, Thirtysomething, and Touched by an Angel. Moreover, Corey Parker also worked in movies, including Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, Biloxi Blues, and 9½ Weeks.
Praised by acting students
Later in his career, Parker also worked as an acting coach. He used his skills to train and guide young actors, working on projects such as Ms. Marvel and Sun Records. According to a GoFundMe set up for Corey, his acting students have gone on to win Tony Awards, SAG Awards, and even Emmy Awards.
“Corey has a unique gift — he reminds us that we are enough. That we are worthy. Through his guidance and training, countless actors have not only grown in their craft, but have also rediscovered their confidence, power, and self-worth,” his students wrote on the GoFundMe.
“For years, Corey has been our cheerleader, mentor, and inspiration, shaping our careers and changing our lives in ways we could never have imagined.”
Rest in peace, Corey Parker. Our thoughts go out to his family
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