Grizzwald Chapman of ‘30 Rock’ Passes Away at 52, Fans Share Heartfelt Tributes

Grizzwald “Grizz” Chapman, the cherished actor renowned for his portrayal of Grizz on 30 Rock, has sadly passed away at the age of 52. The news was initially shared by his cousin, Harlem Globetrotter Donte Harrison, via social media.

“Life gave my cousin Grizz Chapman some heavy battles, but he fought them with strength and dignity until the very end,” Harrison wrote. “After years of fighting illness and dialysis, he passed peacefully in his sleep on May 22nd, 2026.” This heartbreaking news was confirmed by Chapman’s representative, Saideh A. Brown, to TMZ. Kevin Brown, who portrayed Dot Com on 30 Rock, also paid tribute to Chapman on Facebook.

Chapman’s journey in the entertainment industry began in an unexpected manner. While working as a bouncer at a strip club, he crossed paths with Tracy Morgan, who would later star alongside him on 30 Rock. Grizz and Dot Com became integral members of Tracy Jordan’s entourage, delivering some of the show’s most unforgettable comedic moments.

Chapman was open about the effort he put into securing his role, telling CBR in 2012, “I worked hard to get the part, and a lot of people think that because Tracy and me 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.”

His stature sometimes posed challenges in Hollywood casting. Chapman shared with The Hollywood Reporter, “I get a lot of the time, ‘We don’t know how to market you or you’re too big.’ Or, ‘We have one of you already.’ But you don’t have one of me already; you don’t have a seven foot, lovable guy. You don’t have that.”

Despite these hurdles, Chapman established a distinctive presence in both television and film. In addition to 30 Rock, he starred in his own YouTube series, appeared in a film alongside Method Man, and guest-starred on shows like The Blacklist and Blue Bloods.

Chapman faced numerous health challenges throughout his life, including a long battle with kidney disease. He underwent a kidney transplant in 2010 and became a spokesperson for the National Kidney Foundation, raising awareness about organ donation. His commitment to this cause inspired many, as he openly shared his journey and struggles.

He is survived by his wife and two children. Harrison reflected on his cousin’s legacy, writing, “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. Rest easy, cousin. Your name and legacy will live on forever.”

Chapman’s warmth, humor, and unforgettable performances on 30 Rock will continue to resonate with fans for years to come. As the entertainment community mourns his passing, those who knew him personally remember a man of immense heart who brought joy both on and off the screen. His legacy transcends his role as Grizz; he will be remembered as a passionate actor, a devoted family man, and an advocate who turned personal challenges into a platform to help others.

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