James Pickens Jr. Discusses Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

James Pickens Jr. has opened up about his battle with prostate cancer, which comes just after his character on “Grey’s Anatomy” faced a similar diagnosis in the midseason finale. Pickens, who is 73 and portrays Dr. Richard Weber, received his diagnosis during an annual check-up in 2024.

“It’s not the kind of news anyone wants to hear,” he admitted. “But, to be honest, prostate cancer runs in my family. My father had it, and many of his brothers did as well. Honestly, I would have been surprised if I hadn’t gotten it.” He reflected on how family history played a significant role in his awareness of the disease.

He also mentioned a cousin who is in his 90s and has survived prostate cancer, alongside family members who had it but also survived. This background has made Pickens particularly diligent about his health.

During a recent check-up, doctors found elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels, prompting a referral to a urologist. Pickens recalled how the doctor’s concerns about his numbers led to further tests. “When he called it that, it became clear that something was suspicious,” he said.

A biopsy confirmed the presence of a tumor, but fortunately, subsequent scans showed that the cancer had not spread.

Doctors presented Pickens with two treatment options: radiation therapy or a radical prostatectomy. After careful consideration, he chose the surgical route. “They found it so early that they thought that was the best option,” he noted. He added that the cancer he has is a rare variant, which led the doctors to err on the side of caution as they continue to monitor his health.

While this struggle is deeply personal, Pickens expressed a desire to encourage other men to take their health seriously. “One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime,” he explained in a public service announcement for Black Health Matters. “For black men, the risk is even higher. Early detection is key, even though symptoms may not always be apparent.” He emphasized that he is living proof of the effectiveness of early detection and urged men, especially those within high-risk groups, to start discussions with their doctors about screenings at age 40.