Grizz Chapman, the actor best known for his role as Grizz on the acclaimed sitcom 30 Rock, has died at the age of 52. His longtime representative Saideh A. Brown confirmed the news on Friday, though the cause of death was not immediately disclosed. Chapman is survived by his wife of 24 years, Diana, and their two children.
Health Struggles and Kidney Transplant
Chapman had faced significant health challenges over the years. In 2009, he announced that he needed a kidney transplant after being diagnosed with hypertension and later discovering he had kidney disease. He underwent a successful kidney transplant in 2010, following a period of dialysis three times a week, as reported by the Associated Press.
His cousin shared an emotional tribute on Facebook, stating: "Life gave my cousin Grizz Chapman some heavy battles, but he fought them with strength and dignity until the very end. After years of fighting illness and dialysis, he passed peacefully in his sleep on May 22nd, 2026."
Career Highlights
Chapman starred in 80 episodes of 30 Rock, the satirical sitcom created by Tina Fey that aired from 2006 to 2013. The show, set behind the scenes of a fictional live sketch-comedy series, took its name from 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City.
After 30 Rock, Chapman appeared in television programs such as Blue Bloods and The Blacklist, as well as films like the 2014 Adam Sandler comedy The Cobbler. He also launched his own sketch show on YouTube called Grizz Chroniclez, featuring a variety of sketches, and contributed to the Webby-winning channel We the Internet TV.
Chapman's cousin concluded his tribute: "Rest easy, cousin. Your name and legacy will live on forever."
