James Pickens Jr, Grey's Anatomy Star, Reveals Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and It Runs Through the Family

James Pickens Jr, widely known for his role as Dr Richard Webber on the long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, recently shared a deeply personal health update. At 73, Pickens revealed he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a disease that runs through his family. His openness comes shortly after his on-screen character received a similar diagnosis, creating a striking overlap of art and life. The actor has since undergone treatment and is now cancer-free, using his experience to raise awareness about early screening and regular health checks.

James Pickens Jr’s Cancer Diagnosis

James Pickens Jr. has been diagnosed with prostate cancer—just as his Grey’s Anatomy character is dealing with a similar health scare on the show. He’s using his platform to speak openly about prostate cancer and highlight the higher risks Black men face.🙏🏽 🩺 ⚕️ pic.twitter.com/DxBf8wsy8r

— Rain Drops Media (@Raindropsmedia1) November 15, 2025

Pickens shared that during routine health check-ups, his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels had increased, prompting a referral to a urologist. An MRI scan showed something suspicious, followed by a biopsy confirming the presence of a localised tumour. Importantly, further PET scans revealed the cancer had not spread beyond one part of the prostate.

He opted for a radical prostatectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the entire prostate gland. “We caught it really early,” Pickens said, emphasising that early detection was key to his treatment’s success. The actor underwent robotic surgery and spent a short time in the hospital. His recovery has been going well, and he has given a public service message encouraging everyone, especially Black men who face higher risks, to prioritise screening.

ALSO READ: Tyler Henry Undergoes Third Brain Surgery In Six Months Amid Recurring Cyst

James Pickens Jr’s Family History of Cancer Diagnosis

Pickens didn’t mince words about his family’s cancer history. He said his father had prostate cancer, as did several of his uncles.  He added that he has a 90-year-old first cousin who had it, his cousin’s son, and some of his brothers, too and, importantly, “no one, as far as I know, has succumbed to it.” 

That long family history made him vigilant. He told his interviewer, “I started getting my annual physical 34 years ago because you were so diligent, we were able to catch it so early.”

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men worldwide. According to data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), it had nearly 1.47 million new cases globally in 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) and its research partners have sounded the alarm: rates of prostate cancer are expected to increase further, driven in part by ageing populations and limited screening in many regions.

James Pickens Jr’s Advocacy on Prostate Cancer

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by shondaland (@shondaland)

Now that he has shared his own story, Pickens is using his platform to encourage others, especially Black men and those with a family history to talk to their doctors about prostate screening. In a video with Black Health Matters, he noted, “One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. For Black men, the risk is even higher.” 

He emphasised that early detection was crucial: “Fortunately, prostate cancer is highly treatable, but early detection is the key, and sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms.” Today, he says he is cancer-free, and he expressed gratitude for the care he received, while urging men not to ignore preventive screenings.

ALSO READ: At 28, Paige Greco, Paralympic Gold Medalist Dies Due to Sudden Medical Episode

Conclusion

James Pickens Jr.’s revelation about his prostate cancer is more than a personal update as it’s a powerful call to action. He’s encouraging men, especially those with a family history or who belong to high-risk groups, to get regular checkups and PSA tests. His story shows how early detection can change the game. By combining his personal experience with public awareness, he’s helping remove stigma and promote health conversations, and that may save lives.