Corey Parker, 'Will and Grace' and 'Friday the 13th' Actor, Dies at 60

The veteran actor and coach passed away from stage 4 metastatic cancer.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Corey Parker, an actor known for his roles in the 1990s sitcom 'Will & Grace' and the 'Friday the 13th' franchise, has died at the age of 60. Parker passed away on Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee due to stage 4 metastatic cancer, according to his aunt Emily Parker.

Why it matters

Parker was a respected actor and acting coach who had a long career in television, film, and theater. His passing is mourned by his colleagues and students, who praised his talent, passion, and generosity as a mentor.

The details

Born and raised in New York City, Parker began acting at age 5 and was accepted into the prestigious Actors Studio at just 20 years old. He went on to have roles in films like 'Biloxi Blues' and the 'Friday the 13th' franchise, as well as television shows such as 'Will & Grace,' 'Love Boat: The Next Wave,' and 'Flying Blind.' In recent years, Parker had transitioned into coaching and was beloved by his students at the BGB Studio in Los Angeles.

  • Parker passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
  • He had been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer and had been preparing for hospice, according to his last social media post on February 17, 2026.

The players

Corey Parker

A veteran actor known for his roles in 'Will & Grace' and the 'Friday the 13th' franchise, as well as his work as an acting coach at the BGB Studio in Los Angeles.

Emily Parker

Corey Parker's aunt, who confirmed his death to TMZ.

Noelle Parker

Corey Parker's sister, who shared a quote about his passing.

Risa Bramon Garcia

Corey Parker's colleague and longtime friend at the BGB Studio, who paid tribute to him.

BGB Studio

The acting studio where Corey Parker had been teaching for several years prior to his death.

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What they’re saying

“I believe he left this world weightless, at peace & surrounded with love.”

— Noelle Parker, Corey Parker's sister (BGB Studio)

“I have known and loved you for the past 45 years, since our E.S.T days in NY as hungry wild artists. You were a massive part of my creative work, my creative family, for decades.”

— Risa Bramon Garcia, Corey Parker's colleague and longtime friend (BGB Studio)

“I think actors are the gold mine, the source of authenticity and creativity.”

— Corey Parker (BGB Studio)

The takeaway

Corey Parker's passing is a loss for the entertainment industry, as he was a respected and beloved actor, teacher, and mentor who left a lasting impact on those he worked with over his decades-long career.