James Pickens Jr. (American Actor) Biography

Quick Info

Profession	Actor
Nationality	American
Date of Birth	26/10/1954
Age	71 years
Birthplace	Cleveland, Ohio, United States

Latest News about James Pickens Jr.

14/11/2025

James Pickens Jr. revealed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer after an elevated PSA test led to further medical evaluation in 2024. He later said the cancer was caught early and that treatment had been successful, with follow-up testing showing undetectable results. He also used the disclosure to encourage regular screening, especially for Black men and those with a family history of the disease.

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Physical Stats & More

Height	5' 11" (180 cm)
Eye Color	Dark Brown
Hair Color	Bald

Educational Qualification(s)

High School	Daniel E. Morgan Elementary School, Cleveland Harry Davis Junior High School, Cleveland East High School, Cleveland
College/University	Bowling Green State University, Ohio (1973-1976)
Degree	Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree

Personal Life

Political Inclination	Democratic Party
Hobbies	Horseback Riding Cattle Roping Fishing Sketching

Relationships & More

Marital Status	Married
Marriage Date	27/05/1984

Family

Father	James Pickens Sr. (Deceased) (Worker at Republic Steel)
Mother	Ruby Pickens (Deceased) (Homemaker)
Siblings	Brother: Marlin Pickens (Deceased) (US Army Veteran) Sister: Marie Walker
Spouse	Gina Taylor
Children	Son: Carl Pickens Daughter: Gavyn Pickens

Career

Overview	James Pickens Jr. commenced his acting journey in theatre before making his mark in television and films. He was part of critical productions such as 'Another World' and earned acclaim for his role in 'Grey's Anatomy'. His career spans genres including drama, action, and comedy.
Notable Works	TV Debut: 'Another World' (1964) as Zack Edwards Appeared in 'Beverly Hills, 90210' (1991) as Henry Thomas Starring in 'How Stella Got Her Groove Back' (1998) as Walter Payne Participated in the medical drama series 'Grey's Anatomy' (2005) as Richard Webber Recurring role in 'The X-Files' as Deputy Director Alvin Kersh Recurring role in 'Roseanne' (1990–1996) and 'The Conners' (2018–2022) as Chuck Mitchell
Awards	2006 - Best Ensemble (Television) Award at the Satellite Awards for 'Grey's Anatomy' 2007 - Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series at the Screen Actors Guild Awards for 'Grey's Anatomy' 2012 - Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Award at the Image Awards for 'Grey's Anatomy'

Some Lesser Known Facts

1. James Pickens Jr. initially pursued a career as a cartoonist and illustrator before discovering his passion for acting.
2. He began his theatre career at Karamu House, which is recognized as the oldest African-American theatre in the United States.
3. He was involved in various productions and even worked as a stage manager before stepping into acting full-time.
4. James participated in the United States Team Roping Championship and engages in cattle roping events.
5. He owns an American Quarter Horse named Smokey.
6. Pickens has worked with his foundation, the 'James Pickens Jr. Foundation Charity Roping', to support local communities.
7. He has graced the cover of magazines, including Essence Magazine.

James Pickens Jr. Actor American Cleveland, Ohio, United States