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Corey Parker, the beloved ‘Will & Grace’ actor and acclaimed acting coach, has died at 60 after a private cancer battle. The versatile performer passed away Thursday, March 5, in Memphis, Tennessee, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Age at Death: Corey Parker was 60 years old, born July 8, 1965
- Known Roles: Friday the 13th Part V, Will & Grace, Flying Blind, Love Boat: The Next Wave
- Second Career: Master teacher and acting coach for over 45 years in major cities
- Where: Died Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee following terminal cancer diagnosis
From Child Actor to Television Standout
Corey Parker began his entertainment career at just four years old, following in the footsteps of his mother, actress Rocky Parker. His first television credit appeared in 1983 on ‘As the World Turns’, setting the stage for a multi-decade span in both film and television.
In 1985, Parker landed his breakthrough film role as Pete in ‘Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning’, the fifth installment of the iconic horror franchise. This performance introduced him to mainstream audiences and became one of his most memorable roles to devoted fans.
Corey Parker dies at 60 after private cancer battle, ‘Will & Grace’ alum
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A Versatile Television Career Spanning Decades
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Parker appeared in acclaimed television series that showcased his range. He starred in six episodes of ‘Thirtysomething’, the critically-praised drama that captured 1980s America. He also appeared in ‘Eddie Dodd’ and landed roles in various television movies including ‘Blue Skies’ and ‘The Rainmaker’.
Parker’s most recent television role came in 2014 when he appeared on ‘Nashville’. His sitcom work included a starring role as Neil Barash in ‘Flying Blind’ and guest appearances on ‘Will & Grace’, where his character work earned recognition from the show’s devoted fanbase.
A Teacher and Mentor to Generations
Corey Parker transitioned into teaching and coaching beginning in 2000, becoming a Master Teacher and professional acting coach. He studied under legendary coaches including Uta Hagen, Mira Rostova (who coached Montgomery Clift), Herbert Berghof, and Sandra Seacat.
| Teaching Location | Institutions |
| Los Angeles | BGB Studio, Ensemble Studio Theater member |
| Academia | Duke University, Rhodes College, University of Memphis |
| Film & TV Coaching | Marvel’s Ms. Marvel (2022), CMT’s Sun Records |
| Experience | 45+ years teaching in LA, New York, Atlanta, Nashville |
Parker’s impact on acting education was profound, training countless students through workshops and private coaching across the country’s major theatrical hubs.
“I believe he left this world weightless, at peace, and surrounded with love. You were a massive part of my creative work, my creative family, for decades. 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.”
— Noelle Parker, Corey’s Sister, via BGB Studio
Private Battle and Legacy Impact
Corey Parker had been waging a private battle with cancer before his March 5 death. The specific type of cancer has not been publicly disclosed. His passing marks a significant loss to the entertainment and acting education communities.
Students and colleagues launched a GoFundMe campaign earlier in 2025 to support Parker, describing him as an advanced stage cancer survivor whose passion for teaching never wavered despite his health challenges. His devotion to both his craft and his students remained unwavering throughout.
How Will the Entertainment World Remember Corey Parker?
Corey Parker‘s dual legacy spans entertainment and education in equal measure. Fan communities dedicated to ‘Friday the 13th’ have mourned his passing, celebrating his iconic Pete role. Meanwhile, the acting education community recognizes him as a master teacher who shaped careers of emerging performers.
His influence continues through the hundreds of actors he mentored across four decades. Parker belonged to both the Actors Studio and Ensemble Studio Theater, prestigious institutions that honor the craft he dedicated his life to advancing.
Sources
- The Hollywood Reporter – Corey Parker death announcement and career overview
- TMZ – Breaking news of Parker’s death and family statement
- People.com – Obituary and cancer diagnosis confirmation
