Corey Parker, actor known for Will & Grace, dies at 60

American actor Corey Parker, whose face was recognized by viewers of the iconic comedy series 'Will & Grace', died on Thursday, March 7, 2026, at the age of 60. The news was first reported by the American edition of Deadline at 10:24 PM Eastern Time, and within hours it was confirmed by other leading industry media, including Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Vulture. Parker was primarily associated with the role of Elliot, the ex-boyfriend of the main character Grace Adler (Debra Messing), in the multiple award-winning NBC series 'Will & Grace'. His character, appearing in several episodes of the early seasons, fit into the lively, comedic narrative of the show, which permanently etched itself into television history as one of the first mainstream hits with openly gay protagonists. Corey Parker's career, however, dates back to earlier years. An early, significant film appearance was his role as Roy in the fifth installment of the famous horror series 'Friday the 13th: A New Beginning' from 1985. The film, though received with mixed feelings by critics, remains an important part of 1980s slasher culture. Parker also regularly appeared on the small screen, guest-starring in popular series of the time. Among them were the crime drama 'Matlock' with Andy Griffith, the classic 'Murder, She Wrote' with Angela Lansbury, and the sitcom 'The Facts of Life'. His filmography, while not making him a top-tier star, reflected the solid, professional work characteristic of many talented character actors of that era. The series 'Will & Grace', which debuted in 1998, was a breakthrough production for the representation of the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream American television. For eight seasons (and later in a revival), it depicted the friendship between gay lawyer Will Truman (Eric McCormack) and his heterosexual best friend, interior designer Grace Adler (Debra Messing), surrounded by the extravagant Karen Walker (Megan Mullally) and the neurotic Jack McFarland (Sean Hayes). The series won numerous Emmy Awards and significantly influenced the perception of gay themes in American society.All press reports agree on the basic facts: the date of death (March 7, 2026) and the actor's age (60). However, none of the sources provide the cause of Parker's death or specify the location where it occurred. Such discretion is often respected at the family's request in the first hours after a death. There is also no information about planned funeral or memorial services. Corey Parker's death was met with an immediate reaction on social media, where fans and colleagues began to remember the actor and offer condolences. His passing is a loss for the world of entertainment, and his roles, especially the one in 'Will & Grace', will remain in viewers' memories.