'Will & Grace' actor Corey Parker dies at 60 after cancer battle
Corey revealed that '90%' of his bones were affected by adenocarcinoma
Corey Parker, a former Will & Grace actor and cherished acting instructor, has passed away due to a terminal cancer diagnosis. He was 60 years old.
Emily Parker, Corey’s aunt, confirmed to TMZ that Corey's passing occurred on Thursday, March 5, in Memphis, Tennessee.
A GoFundMe page, created to assist his family financially, indicated Corey had been diagnosed with late-stage Stage 4 metastatic cancer following a hip replacement surgery.
Updates provided by Marissa Hoisington, organiser of the fundraiser, included statements from Corey throughout 2025. Initially, there was progress with medication, but the cancer gradually advanced.
In one November 2025 update, Corey explained that “90%” of his bones were affected by adenocarcinoma, a cancer originating in the glandular tissues of organs, per the Cleveland Clinic.
By January 2026, Corey shared that cancer was severely impacting his physical capabilities, hindering his speech and leaving him unable to write or type.
A final update posted on Feb. 17 detailed Corey's terminal status and mentioned that recent radiation, aimed at alleviating pain in his limbs, had affected his “esophagus, speech capacity, and overall condition.” His family had begun hospice arrangements.
“Words can't express how grateful I am for the kindness and support. Your contributions have been life-changing, offering peace of mind knowing that, despite my lack of income, our needs are covered,” Corey conveyed.
Born and raised in New York City, Corey began his acting career at a youthful 5 and trained with esteemed mentors at the Actors Studio by 14. He graduated from Manhattan’s High School of Performing Arts.
Corey's early career in the 1980s included an uncredited role in As the World Turns. He appeared in numerous other shows like The New Leave It to Beaver, At Mother’s Request, The Bronx Zoo, and CBS Summer Playhouse. He also appeared in the movie Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning.
During the 1990s, Corey landed more significant parts, including roles on Thirtysomething, Eddie Dodd, Flying Blind, and Blue Skies, culminating in his portrayal of Doctor John Morgan on Love Boat: The Next Wave.
After the series concluded, he had a recurring role as Josh on Will & Grace, playing Grace Adler’s gentle, eco-conscious boyfriend, portrayed by Debra Messing.
His final appearances were in the TV series Sun Records and the short film Winding Brook, both released in 2017.