Corey Parker, ‘Will & Grace’ actor and acting coach, dies at 60

Actor and acting coach Corey Parker, known for his appearances in television series including Will & Grace, has died at the age of 60 following a battle with cancer. Parker died Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee, according to family members. In a statement shared through BGB Studio, his sister Noelle Parker paid tribute to the actor’s career and influence.

“I believe he left this world weightless, at peace & surrounded with love,” she said. “You were a massive part of my creative work, my creative family, for decades.” She added that the family would remember his “incredible talent, your unparalleled passion and joy in the work and in your family.”

Born in New York City, Parker began acting at a young age and appeared in television during the early 1980s. One of his earliest credits came with an episode of As the World Turns. He made his feature film debut in Scream for Help and soon landed a role in the horror sequel Friday the 13th: A New Beginning.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Parker built a steady acting career with roles in film and television. His film credits included 9½ Weeks, Biloxi Blues and The Rainmaker. On television, he appeared in series such as Thirtysomething, Flying Blind and Love Boat: The Next Wave.

Parker also had a recurring role on Will & Grace, appearing in several episodes as Josh, a boyfriend of Grace Adler. His later television work included an appearance in Nashville.

Beyond acting, Parker became widely respected as an acting coach beginning in 2000. He taught at institutions including Duke University, Rhodes College and the University of Memphis, mentoring students who later earned major industry awards.

Students and colleagues have credited him with shaping generations of performers through his guidance and dedication to teaching.