Hollywood star James Pickens Jr., best known for his role as Dr. Richard Webber on the long-running hit series *Grey’s Anatomy*, has shared some uplifting news: following a prostate cancer diagnosis, he is now cancer-free.
In a moving public-service announcement aired at the end of a recent episode of the acclaimed TV show, James removed his actor’s hat and spoke directly to viewers: “I’m living proof that early detection works.” He later posted a message on his social media channels, writing:
> “Hi friends, I’m blessed and grateful to be cancer-free. Thanks so much for all the love and support! Get checked!”
James’s journey began in 2024 when a routine check revealed elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels. By January, his doctor noticed further changes and referred him to a urologist. Subsequent imaging and a biopsy revealed a tumour confined to one part of the prostate—a result Pickens described as a “huge gift,” especially given his family history of prostate cancer.
> “It’s not the kind of news anyone wants to hear, but to be honest, prostate cancer has run through my family. 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,” James told *Black Health Matters*.
Opting for a robotic radical prostatectomy, James worked closely with his medical team to act quickly and decisively.
> “We caught it really early. They wanted to err on the side of caution and keep an eye on it,” he said. Crucially, a PET scan confirmed the cancer had not spread.
The 70-year-old star’s openness highlights the disproportionate impact prostate cancer has on Black men, who face a significantly higher risk of both diagnosis and mortality. Using his platform, James has emphasized the importance of testing, early intervention, and self-advocacy—delivering a message that has resonated across social media and beyond.
On-set, James’s character, Dr. Webber, is also undergoing a cancer diagnosis, making the news deeply personal for both the actor and the audience. This parallel between his on-screen journey and off-screen health battle adds another poignant layer to his message.
*Grey’s Anatomy* is the longest-running medical drama in American television history. Now entering its 22nd season, the beloved show has launched the careers of more than a dozen actors and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/867830/greys-anatomy-star-james-pickens-jr-shares-health-update-after-cancer-diagnosis/
