Corey Parker, a versatile American actor and respected acting coach, passed away on March 5, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 60. His death was officially confirmed as advanced Stage 4 metastatic adenocarcinoma, a diagnosis uncovered in 2025 following hip replacement surgery for unexplained pain. By November 2025, the cancer had tragically spread to 90% of his bones, significantly impacting his ability to speak and write in his final months. Parker's public battle with the illness, shared through candid updates on a GoFundMe campaign, contributed to broader conversations about stage 4 metastatic cancer and the critical importance of post-surgical vigilance.

Born in New York City on July 8, 1965, Corey Parker was immersed in the world of performing arts from a young age. He was the son of actress Rochelle Natalie "Rocky" Parker, who was also known for her marriage to actor Patrick Dempsey. His acting journey began at just four years old, appearing in television commercials, and he began studying acting in earnest at age 14. Parker honed his craft at the prestigious High School of Performing Arts in New York City, graduating at the top of his class, and later became one of the youngest individuals ever accepted into the esteemed Actors Studio at the age of 20. He also left a full scholarship at New York University to pursue acting professionally and was a longstanding member of the Ensemble Studio Theater.

Parker made a significant impact in film, with a career spanning from 1969 to 2002 and again from 2010 to 2026. His debut feature role was in the 1984 horror film "Scream for Help." He gained recognition for his performance as Epstein in Mike Nichols' 1988 film "Biloxi Blues," alongside Matthew Broderick. His filmography also included appearances in the horror classic "Friday the 13th: A New Beginning" (1985), "9½ Weeks" (1986), "Willy/Milly" (1986), "How I Got into College" (1989), "Big Man on Campus" (1989), "White Palace" (1990) opposite Susan Sarandon, and "The Rainmaker" (1997).

On television, Parker was a familiar face, making his debut in 1983 on an episode of "As the World Turns." He graced numerous series and made-for-television movies, including a recurring role as Lee Owens, the painter and a love interest of Melanie Mayron's character Melissa Steadman, in the acclaimed drama "Thirtysomething," where he participated in a groundbreaking and controversial 1989 episode. He co-starred with Téa Leoni in the 1992-93 Fox sitcom "Flying Blind" and was part of the cast of "Love Boat: The Next Wave." His extensive television credits also include roles in "Broadway Bound" (1992), "Blue Skies," "Eddie Dodd," and "Nashville." Parker starred in specific television movies such as the BBC's "The Lost Language of Cranes," "Mr. and Mrs. Loving," "Courage" with Sophia Loren, "A Mother's Prayer," and "Destiny, The Elizabeth Taylor Story," where he portrayed Eddie Fisher. Later in his career, he became widely recognized for his recurring role as Josh, a bohemian character and one of Grace's boyfriends, in five episodes of the popular sitcom "Will & Grace" during its second season. He also performed onstage at the 61st Academy Awards in 1989.

Beyond his acting credits, Corey Parker transitioned into a highly respected career as an acting coach around the early 2000s, teaching in major cities including Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville. He served as a guest artist and instructor at institutions such as Rhodes College, the University of Memphis, and HB Studio. Parker also taught at Susan Batson's Black Nexxus studios in New York and Los Angeles, Lesly Kahn's institute in Los Angeles, and John Ruskin's Studio in Los Angeles. He was an accredited instructor for Ivana Chubbuck in the Chubbuck Technique. His expertise was sought after in various productions, including serving as the official acting coach for CMT's "Sun Records" and working on Marvel's "Ms. Marvel." Parker's dedication to teaching helped shape the next generation of performers, with his students achieving success in their own careers, some going on to win Tony, SAG, and Emmy Awards.

Corey Parker's life was marked by a deep commitment to his craft and a passion for storytelling. His sister, Noelle Parker, shared a heartfelt tribute via BGB Studio on Instagram, stating that he "left this world weightless, at peace & surrounded with love." BGB Studio co-founder Risa Bramon Garcia also shared a tribute, reflecting on their 45-year friendship and his profound creative impact as a teacher. Diane Franklin, his co-star from "How I Got into College," remembered him on social media as "naturally funny, sincere and just a good guy." Students launched a GoFundMe campaign for his medical expenses, praising his intuitive and nurturing teaching style.

His legacy endures through his memorable performances and the countless actors he mentored, leaving behind a profound impact on the entertainment world. Numerous publications have released legacy articles and career summaries since his death, reflecting on his contributions as both an actor and a highly respected acting coach. Parker was married to Angela Parker, following an earlier marriage to Linda Kerridge that ended in divorce.