James Pickens Jr. of Grey’s Anatomy Announces Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
James Pickens Jr., known for his role as Dr. Richard Webber on the iconic series Grey’s Anatomy, has disclosed that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. This announcement was made during an interview with Black Health Matters.
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
During the interview, Pickens Jr. reflected on his family history with prostate cancer. He stated, “It’s not the kind of news anyone wants to hear, but prostate cancer has run through my family. My father had it, as did several of my uncles.” He noted that given this background, he was not entirely surprised by his diagnosis.
Early Detection
Fortunately, Pickens Jr. was able to catch his cancer at an early stage. He attributed this to regular screenings and testing. After undergoing a routine physical, his doctor noticed elevated PSA levels and referred him to a urologist.
- Referral to a urologist followed a routine examination.
- An MRI revealed “something suspicious.”
- Pickens Jr. opted for a radical prostatectomy as a proactive measure.
He explained, “We caught it really early, and so they thought that would be the best route to take.” His doctors advised caution due to a rare variant of the disease, which prompted them to monitor his condition closely.
Legacy on Grey’s Anatomy
James Pickens Jr. has enjoyed a long tenure on Grey’s Anatomy, spanning 22 seasons. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to portray Dr. Webber, saying, “I’ve been really blessed to play this character for as long as I have.”
Character Development
Pickens Jr. described the journey of Dr. Webber as immensely human and relatable. He noted the character’s emotional arcs, saying, “We’ve taken this journey with him when he’s been victorious and when he’s been in valleys.”
As he navigates his personal health challenges, Pickens Jr. continues to inspire his audience through his work and openness about his experiences. This public discussion may encourage others to focus on their health and engage in regular screenings, particularly for prostate cancer.
