James Pickens Jr. Talks About Listening To His Body And Catching Cancer Early

Actor James Pickens Jr., renowned for his role as Dr. Richard Webber on ABC's celebrated series "Grey’s Anatomy," highlighted the importance of early detection in his battle with prostate cancer. In an Instagram video released on Friday, he shared that he embodies the notion that timely screenings can save lives.At 71 years old, Pickens has always placed significant emphasis on annual check-ups, especially given his family's history with prostate cancer. Following a concerning blood test result in 2024, his physician advised him to consult a urologist. A tumor was identified through a biopsy; however, a subsequent PET scan confirmed that the cancer had not progressed. He underwent a robotic procedure to excise part of his prostate.Notably, this personal journey parallels his character's storyline in "Grey’s Anatomy,” where Dr. Webber reveals his cancer diagnosis amidst the series' midseason finale. Prostate cancer impacts 1 in 8 men, with Black men facing even greater risk, emphasizing the critical message: early detection is vital.