Grizz Chapman, the beloved actor known for his role on the NBC sitcom 30 Rock, passed away on Friday at the age of 52. New details have emerged regarding his health struggles in the months leading up to his death.
Health Struggles and Kidney Transplant
According to Chapman's manager, Renee Glicke, who spoke with TMZ, the comedic actor had been 'struggling to stay alive' before his death. Glicke revealed that Chapman was in need of a new kidney transplant but faced difficulties finding a suitable donor due to his seven-foot-tall frame. He had previously undergone a kidney transplant in July 2010.
His manager also noted that Chapman had been dealing with various medical issues leading up to his death. Chapman's cousin confirmed via social media on Friday that he died in his sleep after years of 'fighting illness' and undergoing 'dialysis.'
Career and Legacy
Chapman was widely adored by fans of 30 Rock for his recurring role as a character also named Grizz. Grizz was the childhood friend and later assistant of Tracy Morgan's character Tracy Jordan, serving as a comedic foil. The character had a complex history with Tina Fey's Liz Lemon, including occasional romantic liaisons.
Born in 1974 in Brooklyn, Chapman was working as a strip club bouncer when he first met the real Tracy Morgan. He went on to appear in 80 episodes of 30 Rock, from its first season in 2006 to its final season in 2013. Alongside Kevin Brown's character Dot Com, Grizz formed part of Tracy Jordan's idiosyncratic entourage.
Health Journey
Before his 2010 transplant, Chapman had been diagnosed with hypertension, which he ignored, and later discovered he had kidney disease. He announced in 2009 that he needed a transplant, noting that he first had to lose weight and secure a donor.
Other Work
Beyond 30 Rock, Chapman appeared in TV shows such as Blue Bloods and The Blacklist, as well as films like the 2014 Adam Sandler comedy The Cobbler. He also launched his own sketch show on YouTube called The Grizz Chronicles and was featured on the Webby-winning channel We the Internet TV.
Tributes
As news of his death spread, Chapman was memorialized online by his cousin Donte 'Hammer' Harrison, who plays for the Harlem Globetrotters. 'Life gave my cousin Grizz Chapman some heavy battles, but he fought them with strength and dignity until the very end,' wrote Harrison. Praising his 'good heart' and 'good energy,' Harrison shared that Chapman died 'peacefully in his sleep' following 'years of fighting illness and dialysis.' He added, 'I'm thankful we got time to reconnect 2 months before his passing. Rest easy, cousin. Your name and legacy will live on forever.'
Chapman is survived by his wife, Diana Chapman, and their two children.
