Actor Corey Parker, known for Will & Grace & Friday the 13th, dies at 60. Remembered for his talent, generosity, and impact on NYC's artistic community.
- March 18, 2026
AceShowbiz - Corey Parker, known for his recurring role on Will & Grace and his part in Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, has passed away at the age of 60. The actor died on Thursday in Memphis following a cancer diagnosis, according to TMZ. The specific type of cancer has not been publicly disclosed.
A heartfelt tribute came from Risa Garcia, a longtime loved one of Parker. In her statement, she reflected on their 45-year friendship that began during their time as passionate artists in New York City’s E.S.T community. She emphasized his significant influence on her creative journey and their shared dedication to storytelling and acting.
"You were a massive part of my creative work, my creative family, for decades," Garcia wrote. She praised Parker for his talent, passion for his craft, generosity, and commitment to teaching acting. She also highlighted how his presence made their artistic community stronger and more honest.
Garcia continued, "All our lives are so much richer for knowing you, and you carry on in each of us, and in what you gifted and inspired in us… forever." Another close associate, Noelle, added her condolences, sending love and light to Corey Parker’s family and everyone touched by his work.
Born on July 8, 1965, in New York City, Parker was the son of actress Rochelle “Rocky” Parker and John David Haas. He began his career early, appearing in television commercials at age four before attending New York’s High School of Performing Arts.
Parker made his television debut in 1983 on As the World Turns. He later appeared in numerous TV shows including The New Leave It to Beaver, Thirtysomething, Flying Blind, Touched by an Angel, Love Boat: The Next Wave, Nashville, and the hit series Will & Grace, where he played Grace’s boyfriend, Josh, in a recurring role.
In film, Corey Parker is remembered for his role as Pete in the 1985 horror sequel Friday the 13th: A New Beginning. His other movie credits include 9 1/2 Weeks (1986), Biloxi Blues (1988), Big Man on Campus (1989), Encino Woman (1996), and The Rainmaker (1997).
Beyond acting, Parker was also an accomplished acting instructor. His recent work included contributions to the CMT series Sun Records in 2017 and the Disney+ Marvel series Ms. Marvel in 2022.
Corey Parker’s impact on the acting community, both on-screen and as a mentor, leaves a lasting legacy. His family, friends, and fans continue to celebrate his life and the passion he brought to his craft.
