'Grey's Anatomy' star James Pickens Jr. reveals cancer battle

Grey’s Anatomy star James Pickens Jr. is bringing a whole new meaning to “art imitates life.”

The 71-year-old actor has revealed his private battle with cancer, just days after his Grey’s Anatomy character, Dr. Richard Webber, received the same diagnosis. In a conversation with Black Health Matters over the weekend, Pickens revealed that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year.

However, the news didn’t come as a shock, given his family’s medical history.

“It’s not the kind of news anyone wants to hear, but to be honest, prostate cancer has run through my family,” he explained.

Pickens revealed that his father, uncles, and even cousins have faced the same diagnosis. “I would have been surprised if I hadn’t gotten it,” he said.

Because of that history, Pickens had been vigilant for decades, getting annual physicals and starting PSA testing at 41. That decision proved critical. “My urologist said, ‘Because you were so diligent in that piece of your health, it was to your advantage. We were able to catch it so early because you were being tested,’” he shared.

After elevated PSA levels during his January physical, an MRI and biopsy confirmed a tumour. A PET scan brought relief, showing the cancer hadn’t spread. Pickens underwent a radical prostatectomy, noting the variant he has is rare, but — thanks to early detection — was found unusually early.

Now, he’s using his experience to push for awareness, especially among Black men who face higher risks yet often avoid screenings.

“Today, I am living proof that early detection works,” he says in his Black Health Matters PSA. “If you’re Black, or prostate cancer runs in your family, talk to your doctor about getting screened starting at age 40.”