Grizz Chapman, Star of 30 Rock, Dies at 52
Grizz Chapman, widely recognized for his role in the acclaimed television series 30 Rock, has passed away at the age of 52. His representative confirmed the news to TMZ, which first reported the tragic event. The actor’s manager, Renee Glicker, shared details about his final days, stating that he was “just struggling to stay alive” due to a series of medical conditions.
Chapman had undergone a kidney transplant in 2010, but due to his height of two metres and 13 cm, finding a suitable donor proved challenging. Although the exact cause of his death remains unconfirmed, Glicker suggested there were multiple contributing factors.
A Legacy Remembered
Chapman’s cousin, Donte “Hammer” Harrison, a member of the Harlem Globetrotters, paid tribute to him on Instagram. In a heartfelt post, Harrison reflected on the actor’s strength and dignity throughout his battles with illness.
“Life gave my cousin Grizz Chapman some heavy battles, but he fought them with strength and dignity until the very end,” Harrison wrote alongside photos of the pair on a basketball court and images from Chapman’s career.
“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. After years of fighting illness and dialysis, he passed peacefully in his sleep on May 22nd, 2026.”
Harrison expressed gratitude for the time they spent reconnecting just two months before Chapman’s passing. “Rest easy, cousin. Your name and legacy will live on forever.”
Career Highlights
Chapman is best known for his role as Grizz Griswold in 30 Rock, where he co-starred with Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, and Tracy Morgan. He appeared on the show from 2006 to 2013. His journey to the show began when he met Tracy Morgan while working as a bouncer in a New York nightclub, leading to a friendship that helped shape his career.
In a 2012 interview with CBR, Chapman discussed how he earned his role on the show. “I worked hard to get the part, and a lot of people think that because Tracy and I are friends, I automatically got the part. What I can say is that Tracy was an integral part in me keeping my job because there were four members of the entourage originally, but NBC came to Tina Fey and Tracy and said they couldn’t pay for all four. So, Tracy said we’re gonna keep just two guys, which included me. I made the cut. I worked hard to get there. I worked really hard.”
Later Work and Personal Life
Beyond 30 Rock, Chapman appeared in TV shows such as The Black List and Blue Bloods, as well as films like Money Monster. He also created his own YouTube sketch series, showcasing his comedic talent.
He is survived by his wife and two children, who are reportedly “devastated” following his death. The family has not yet released further details about his passing or funeral arrangements.
Final Thoughts
Grizz Chapman’s contributions to entertainment and his personal resilience left a lasting impact on those who knew him. As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues, his legacy continues to inspire. His story serves as a reminder of the strength required to face life’s challenges with grace and determination.
