Veteran actor James Pickens Jr.—known for his long-running role as Dr. Richard Webber on the television drama Grey’s Anatomy—has revealed that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. The disclosure comes just days after his character on the show disclosed a cancer diagnosis in the mid-season finale. Pickens used the moment to speak openly about his personal health journey and the importance of early detection.

A Personal Diagnosis Mirrors Fiction

Pickens, age 73, said that prostate cancer has long been present in his family, with his father and several uncles also having been diagnosed. Because of this history, he began regular PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing at age 41 and maintained annual physical examinations. Earlier this year, his doctor noted elevated PSA levels, which led to further testing, including an MRI and biopsy. The results revealed a tumor in his prostate, but a PET scan confirmed it had not spread. Pickens subsequently underwent a robotic radical prostatectomy and is now reporting a positive prognosis. He described the variant of cancer as “rare,” adding that catching it early made a significant difference.

Pickens chose to publicly share his diagnosis in order to reduce the stigma many men face when it comes to prostate health, especially in the Black community. At the conclusion of a recent television episode, he appeared in a public service announcement urging men—particularly Black men, who statistically face higher risks of prostate cancer—to begin screening as early as age 40.

Raising Awareness and the Road Ahead

Pickens emphasised that his experience reinforces the value of proactive health checks. “I’m a living proof that early detection works,” he said, advising men with family histories of prostate cancer to talk with their doctor about screening options. He pointed out that many men avoid such tests because of fear or distrust of the medical system, and he specifically addressed concerns within the African-American community.

The actor’s announcement is timely: his character on Grey’s Anatomy is facing a cancer diagnosis, creating a real-life parallel that could boost public awareness. Experts say that when familiar public figures speak openly about health challenges, it often leads to increased screening and discussions among men who might otherwise delay seeing a doctor.

While Pickens continues his role on Grey’s Anatomy, his focus now includes advocacy for men’s health. He partnered with the organisation Black Health Matters to launch a campaign on prostate cancer screening. With his story, he hopes to shift discussion and behaviour—spotlighting that effective treatment is available if cancer is caught early.

As Pickens returns to both his personal recovery and his television role, the broader message resonates: timely screening can save lives, and open conversation can help remove stigma around men’s health.