Parker passed away on Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee, according to a family member. His aunt, Emily Parker, confirmed the news to TMZ, although the exact type of cancer he had been fighting has not been publicly revealed.
Following his death, Parker’s sister Noelle shared a heartfelt message on Instagram honoring her brother’s life and legacy. In her tribute, she expressed hope that he left the world peacefully, surrounded by love. She also celebrated his remarkable talent, deep passion for his craft, devotion to family, generosity, and the inspiration he gave to those around him. According to her message, Parker’s influence will continue to live on through the many people he inspired during his life.
Parker began building his acting career in Hollywood in the mid-1980s. One of his earliest roles came in the cult horror sequel Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning, where he portrayed a character named Pete. Shortly afterward, he appeared in the romantic drama 9½ Weeks alongside Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke.
Television audiences later became familiar with Parker when he landed a leading role in the short-lived sitcom Flying Blind. In the series, he played Neil Barash, an awkward young man trying to navigate relationships and adulthood opposite the free-spirited Alicia, played by Téa Leoni. Although the show lasted only one season, it featured several recognizable faces, including Lisa Kudrow.
Parker also appeared in several episodes of Will & Grace, portraying Josh, one of Grace Adler’s romantic interests. Over the years, he accumulated credits in numerous films and television series, including Biloxi Blues, White Palace, Love Boat: The Next Wave, Nashville, and Blue Skies.
In more recent years, Parker stepped back from acting and dedicated himself to mentoring aspiring performers. He worked as an acting coach on productions such as Sun Records and the Ms. Marvel series from Marvel Studios.
Acting ran in Parker’s family. His mother, Rocky Parker, was also an actress and was once married to Patrick Dempsey during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Rocky Parker passed away in 2014. Parker’s sister Noelle has also been involved in the entertainment world.
