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Corey Parker, a veteran actor known for his roles in the horror classic Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning and the sitcom Flying Blind, died on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
He was 60 years old. His aunt, Emily Parker, confirmed that he passed away in Memphis, Tennessee, following a battle with cancer.
Corey Parker began his professional acting career as a child in television commercials.
He gained significant recognition in the mid-1980s after landing the role of Pete in Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning.
His film career continued with appearances in projects such as 9½ Weeks, Biloxi Blues, and White Palace.
In the 1990s, Corey Parker became a familiar face on television. He starred as Neil Barash in the sitcom Flying Blind opposite Téa Leoni.
He also had recurring roles in popular series like Thirtysomething and Will & Grace, where he played Josh, one of the boyfriends of Grace Adler.
His television credits extended to shows like The Love Boat: The Next Wave, Blue Skies, and Nashville.
In addition to his work in front of the camera, Corey Parker was a highly respected acting coach. He served as a lifetime member of the Actors Studio and the Ensemble Studio Theater.
Throughout his teaching career, he coached actors for major productions, including projects for Marvel and the series Sun Records.
He also taught at several universities, including the University of Memphis and Rhodes College.
Colleagues and former students have shared tributes to Corey Parker, praising his dedication to the craft of acting and his supportive nature as a mentor.
He leaves behind a legacy of performances spanning over four decades and a significant impact on the next generation of performers through his coaching work.
