American Actor Grizz Chapman Dies at 52

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Grizzwald “Grizz” Chapman, the towering and beloved actor best known for his role as Grizz on the NBC sitcom 30 Rock, has died at the age of 52. The actor’s passing was confirmed by his agent, Renee Glicker, who stated that Chapman died peacefully in his sleep on Friday, May 22, 2026.

Chapman’s death marks the end of a career that spanned nearly two decades, though his health struggles had significantly limited his professional opportunities in recent years. Standing at seven feet tall and weighing 380 pounds, Chapman became a standout figure in Hollywood, though he often faced challenges finding roles that suited his size. His manager, Glicker, described him as “a very sweet man who loved his family very much” and noted that his poor health had curtailed his career.

Chapman’s most iconic role was as Grizz, one of the two bumbling but loyal confidants to Tracy Morgan’s character Tracy Jordan on 30 Rock, which aired from 2006 to 2013. The actor’s physical presence and distinctive voice made the character instantly memorable, contributing to the show’s enduring popularity. Beyond 30 Rock, Chapman appeared in episodes of Blue Bloods, The Blacklist, and The Good Fight, as well as his own YouTube variety series, Grizz Chronicles.

Chapman’s health battles were well-documented, particularly his struggles with kidney disease. He had undergone a kidney transplant in 2010 and later required a second transplant, though finding a suitable match proved difficult due to his height. His cousin shared that he had been “just struggling to stay alive” in the months leading up to his death, which occurred after years of fighting illness and dialysis. The cause of death has not been officially determined, though Glicker suggested there may have been “a number of contributing factors.”

Chapman was born on April 16, 1974, in Brooklyn, New York. Before his acting career took off, he worked as a bouncer at a strip club, where he met Tracy Morgan, who cast him in 30 Rock alongside Kevin Brown as Dot Com. Despite his success on the show, Chapman often spoke about the frustration of being typecast due to his height, questioning why he couldn’t secure roles as a doctor, teacher, or football coach. He became an advocate for taller actors, pushing for more opportunities in an industry that frequently overlooked performers of his stature.

In addition to his acting career, Chapman was a spokesperson for the National Kidney Foundation, using his platform to raise awareness about organ donation and kidney disease. His passing has left a void in Hollywood, where he was remembered as both a gentle giant and a devoted family man.

Tributes have already begun to pour in from fans, colleagues, and industry figures, with many reflecting on Chapman’s warmth, humor, and the unique energy he brought to his roles. As details continue to emerge, his legacy as one of television’s most unforgettable characters remains secure.