Grey’s Anatomy Star James Pickens Jr. Shares Cancer Journey

You know him as the steady Dr. Richard Webber on “Grey’s Anatomy,” but off-screen, actor James Pickens Jr. is navigating a personal health battle. The beloved star recently shared that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a disease that has a significant history within his own family.

A Familiar Diagnosis

Pickens, 71, opened up about his diagnosis, admitting it wasn’t unexpected given his family’s medical history. “Prostate cancer has run through my family,” he told Black Health Matters. “My father had it. He had a lot of brothers; several of them had it. I would have been surprised if I hadn’t gotten it.”

This isn’t just a personal struggle; it’s a shared family experience. The Prostate Cancer Foundation highlights that prostate cancer is highly heritable, contributing up to 60 percent of the risk. Sadly, Black men are disproportionately affected, with one in six developing the disease and being more than twice as likely to die from it.

Optimism Amidst the Challenge

Despite the prevalence in his family, Pickens remains optimistic. He pointed to relatives who have lived long lives after their diagnoses, including a 90-year-old first cousin who is still alive and also had prostate cancer. “No one, as far as I know, has succumbed to it,” he shared, offering a hopeful perspective.

The Power of Early Detection

Pickens’ own character, Dr. Richard Webber, recently revealed his own cancer diagnosis on “Grey’s Anatomy.” For Pickens, the key to managing his health has been consistent vigilance. “I started getting my annual physical 34 years ago,” he explained. His urologist emphasized that his diligence was a major advantage, allowing doctors to catch the tumor extremely early.

This early detection meant the tumor hadn’t spread, significantly improving his prognosis. Pickens opted for a radical prostatectomy, a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the prostate gland. He noted that he has a rare variant of the cancer, which prompted his doctors to be extra cautious and thorough.

A Shared Journey

Pickens joins a list of notable Black men, including D’Angelo, Montell Jordan, Al Roker, and the late Colin Powell, who have publicly shared their experiences with prostate cancer. His willingness to speak openly about his diagnosis and treatment is a powerful reminder of the importance of regular health screenings and proactive healthcare.