New heartbreaking details are emerging following the death of beloved “30 Rock” actor Grizz Chapman. The comedian and actor, best known for playing Tracy Jordan’s loyal sidekick on the hit NBC sitcom, died Friday at age 52. Now, those closest to Grizz Chapman are opening up about the serious health battles he quietly endured in the years leading up to his death, including a difficult search for a kidney donor and ongoing dialysis treatments.

Grizz Chapman Was Reportedly Battling Serious Health Issues

According to Chapman’s manager, Renee Glicke, the actor had been facing major medical struggles before his passing. Speaking to TMZ, Glicke revealed Chapman had been “struggling to stay alive” and was in need of another kidney transplant.

The actor had reportedly experienced difficulty finding a donor due in part to his towering seven-foot frame. Chapman previously underwent a kidney transplant in July 2010, but his health reportedly worsened in recent years.

His manager also claimed he had been battling several medical complications leading up to his death.

Chapman’s Cousin Says He Died ‘Peacefully In His Sleep’

On Friday, Chapman’s cousin, Harlem Globetrotter Donte “Hammer” Harrison, publicly shared the devastating news of the actor’s passing. According to Harrison, Chapman died peacefully after years of health struggles. “Life gave my cousin Grizz Chapman some heavy battles, but he fought them with strength and dignity until the very end,” Harrison wrote, adding that Chapman died “peacefully in his sleep” after “years of fighting illness and dialysis.”

Harrison also reflected on reconnecting with Chapman shortly before his death. “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.

Grizz Chapman Became A Fan Favorite On ‘30 Rock’

Fans of “30 Rock” will likely remember Chapman for his scene-stealing role as Grizz, a fictionalized version of himself and childhood friend to Tracy Morgan’s character, Tracy Jordan. The actor appeared in 80 episodes of the beloved NBC comedy between 2006 and 2013.

On the show, Grizz and fellow sidekick Dot Com, played by Kevin Brown, formed part of Tracy Jordan’s unforgettable entourage. Chapman’s character also memorably shared a complicated and often hilarious dynamic with Tina Fey’s Liz Lemon.

Before finding television fame, Chapman reportedly worked as a strip club bouncer in Brooklyn, where he first crossed paths with Tracy Morgan.

Chapman Previously Opened Up About Kidney Disease

Chapman had publicly discussed his health challenges over the years. Before receiving his first kidney transplant in 2010, the actor reportedly revealed he had ignored a hypertension diagnosis before eventually learning he had kidney disease.

In 2009, Chapman announced he needed a transplant and said he first had to lose weight and find a donor match. Despite his medical setbacks, Chapman continued acting and creating content.

Beyond “30 Rock,” he appeared in shows like “Blue Bloods” and “The Blacklist, along with films including Adam Sandler’s “The Cobbler.” He also launched his own YouTube sketch series called “The Grizz Chronicles” and appeared on the Webby-winning channel We the Internet TV.

Fans Are Mourning Grizz Chapman’s Loss

Following news of Chapman’s death, tributes quickly poured in online from loved ones and longtime fans. Many remembered the actor for his humor, warmth, and larger-than-life presence both on-screen and off. “damn. Grizz and dot com were lowkey the soul of that show,” one fan wrote on X. Others struggled to process the loss, especially given Chapman’s age. “So young! RIP Grizz the Great!” another person shared.

Several fans admitted the news hit harder than expected. “Look at me. Crying like a baby,” one social media user wrote. “That’s incredibly sad. Rest in peace,” another added.

Some social media users kept their reactions simple but heartfelt. “Rip king,” one person wrote. Others reflected on how shocking it felt to lose someone so young. “Fifty-two is way too close to my age for comfort. Awful news,” another user shared.

For fans of “30 Rock,” Chapman’s role as Grizz remains one of the sitcom’s most memorable supporting performances, making his sudden loss all the more heartbreaking.