Grizzwald ‘Grizz’ Chapman, the actor best known for portraying the character Grizz on the NBC sitcom 30 Rock, died Friday at the age of 52, according to his longtime representative Saideh A. Brown.
Brown confirmed the news to TMZ, though details surrounding the cause of death were not immediately released. Chapman, who stood seven feet tall, appeared in all seven seasons of the show that aired from 2006 to 2013.
Born April 16, 1974, in Brooklyn, Chapman worked as a bouncer at a strip club before meeting Tracy Morgan, who cast him alongside Kevin Brown in the roles of Grizz and Dot Com, the two confidants to Morgan’s character Tracy Jordan.
The actor’s passing marks the end of a career that extended beyond 30 Rock into guest appearances on series such as Blue Bloods, The Blacklist, and The Good Fight. He also created his own YouTube variety series titled Grizz Chronicles.
Chapman had previously dealt with kidney disease and served as a spokesperson for the National Kidney Foundation, raising awareness about the condition through public appearances and interviews.
Colleagues from the 30 Rock set remembered Chapman as a towering presence both physically and in personality, often bringing humor to the set during the show’s run. Morgan, who discovered Chapman, had frequently highlighted their long-standing friendship in past comments.
While no official statement from the Chapman family has been issued yet, tributes from fans and industry peers began appearing on social media shortly after the news broke. Many recalled his memorable lines and imposing stature that made the Grizz character a fan favorite.
Chapman’s work on 30 Rock earned him recognition as part of an ensemble cast that included Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, and Tracy Morgan. The series itself received multiple Emmy Awards during its time on air.
Additional projects in Chapman’s filmography included smaller roles that showcased his versatility beyond comedy. His YouTube series allowed him to explore variety content independently after the conclusion of 30 Rock.
According to reports, Chapman remained active in advocacy work related to kidney health until recently. The National Kidney Foundation issued a brief statement expressing sadness over the loss of one of its prominent supporters.
Friends described Chapman as someone who used his platform to connect with others facing health challenges, often sharing personal stories during public events. His height and background as a bouncer added unique layers to the characters he portrayed.
The entertainment community continues to react to the news, with several cast members from 30 Rock expected to release statements in the coming days. No funeral arrangements have been announced at this time.
Chapman’s death comes amid a period when many former 30 Rock cast members have reflected on the show’s legacy through reunions and interviews. His contributions to the series remain a highlight for viewers who followed the program over its seven-year run.