‘30 Rock’ actor dead at 52: ‘Somebody who made an impact in this life’

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Grizz Chapman, the beloved actor best known for his memorable role in the hit NBC comedy 30 Rock. Chapman, who was 52, passed away on May 22, 2026.

A Lasting Impact

On the set of 30 Rock, Chapman became a fan favorite as one of the loyal bodyguards for Tracy Morgan’s character. He famously starred alongside Kevin Brown, who played his onscreen counterpart, Dot Com.

Brown confirmed the news of his passing in a tribute posted to Facebook, writing, “I regret to inform you that Mack Chapman aka Grizz Chapman passed today. May he RIP.”

A Fighter Until the End

Harlem Globetrotters star Donte “Hammer” Harrison, who identified himself as Chapman's cousin, shared that the actor had been battling a long-term illness and undergoing dialysis. According to Harrison, Chapman passed away peacefully in his sleep.

“Life gave my cousin Grizz Chapman some heavy battles, but he fought them with strength and dignity until the very end,” Harrison wrote on Instagram. “A lot of people knew him as the sitcom star from 30 Rock, but we knew the man behind the screen. A good heart, good energy, and somebody who made an impact in this life.”

205focus.com notes that Chapman is survived by his wife and two children. As Harrison reflected on their recent reconnection, he added, “Rest easy, cousin. Your name and legacy will live on forever.”