Corey Parker, known for his role in Will & Grace, has passed away
“I cannot thank you enough for all the love and care,” Corey Parker expressed in a heartfelt message to his supporters shortly before his passing. The beloved actor, who was 60 years old, died on March 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with advanced Stage 4 metastatic cancer.
Parker, who gained recognition for his recurring role as Josh in the iconic sitcom Will & Grace, faced a challenging health journey. Following a hip replacement surgery, he was diagnosed with cancer that had spread extensively throughout his body, with 90 percent of his bones affected by adenocarcinoma by November 2025. His last update indicated that he was preparing for hospice care, a testament to the severity of his condition.
Born into a family with a strong connection to the arts, Parker’s mother, Rocky Parker, was also an actress who passed away in 2014. Corey began his acting career in the mid-1980s and was not only known for his role in Will & Grace but also for his performance in the sitcom Flying Blind, where he appeared in five episodes. Later in his career, he dedicated himself to teaching, working as an acting coach and inspiring many aspiring actors.
His students remembered him fondly, stating, “Corey has a unique gift – he reminds us that we are enough. That we are worthy.” This sentiment reflects the impact he had on those he taught and mentored throughout his life.
As Parker’s health deteriorated, his family set up a GoFundMe campaign to assist with his medical expenses, which raised over $59,000, surpassing their initial goal of $65,000. The support from the community highlighted the love and respect he garnered throughout his life.
In a poignant reflection on his treatment, Parker shared, “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.” This statement underscores the physical toll that cancer and its treatments can take on individuals.
Corey Parker’s legacy as an artist and teacher will endure in the hearts of those he touched. His family expressed their love, stating, “We love this man, this artist, this teacher. There is no one like him.” As the entertainment community mourns his loss, his contributions to the arts and the lives he influenced will be remembered for years to come.