James Pickens Jr., known for his beloved role as Dr. Richard Webber on Grey’s Anatomy, is celebrating two decades on the hit medical drama. After 20 years on set, Pickens says the experience still feels fresh, exciting, and full of surprises.
In a recent interview, the veteran actor opened up about the joy of portraying a character for so long, what keeps him inspired, and what fans can expect from the upcoming season. Despite the show’s long run, James Pickens Jr. assured audiences: “There’s still interesting stuff ahead.”
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A Rare Milestone in TV History
Very few actors remain on a single show for 20 consecutive years. James Pickens Jr. joined Grey’s Anatomy from its very first episode in 2005 and has appeared in nearly every season since. His role as Chief of Surgery and later as a mentor to other doctors has been central to the series’ emotional depth and evolution.
When asked how he feels about the longevity of his role, Pickens shared:
“I feel incredibly blessed and humbled that I’ve had a job for this long—something I’ve enjoyed coming to every day.”
This statement reflects his deep gratitude for the show, the fans, and the creative team behind one of TV’s longest-running prime-time dramas.
“Every Day Is an Adventure”
Even after two decades, James Pickens Jr. approaches his work on set with energy and passion. He emphasized that no two days are ever the same, describing the experience as an ongoing journey:
“Every day is an adventure, and that’s the joy of this job.”
This attitude is part of what has made Pickens such a steady and respected figure within the cast and crew. His enthusiasm remains strong, and his performances continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
Respect for Real-Life Doctors
Though Grey’s Anatomy is a fictional series, Pickens has consistently highlighted the importance of recognizing real-world healthcare professionals. He often expresses how grateful he is to represent doctors on screen.
“What real doctors and nurses do is beyond what we could ever portray. I’m just extremely grateful that I get to play one.”
This deep respect for the medical profession has helped anchor his character with authenticity and dignity.
Teasing the Future: “Interesting Stuff Ahead”
Looking ahead to Season 21, James Pickens Jr. hinted at upcoming plotlines that will continue to challenge and excite fans.
“There’s some interesting stuff ahead, and we’ve got some exciting developments coming this season.”
While he didn’t share specifics, his optimism signals that Grey’s Anatomy still has compelling stories to tell. With new cast members joining and longtime favorites returning, the show continues to evolve while honoring its legacy.
A Strong Voice in the Streaming Era
As Grey’s Anatomy surpasses over one billion streams globally, conversations about fair compensation in the age of streaming have intensified. Pickens voiced support for fellow cast members advocating for residuals and recognition, especially after Ellen Pompeo recently brought the issue into the spotlight.
Pickens agreed that actors deserve a fair share of the show’s ongoing success, especially those who helped build it from the ground up. His solidarity with the cast shows his leadership and commitment to fairness in the entertainment industry.
Why James Pickens Jr. Matters to Grey’s Anatomy
Beyond the scripts and surgeries, James Pickens Jr. has played a vital role in shaping Grey’s Anatomy‘s tone, culture, and message. Here’s why he continues to stand out:
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Consistency: As one of the few original cast members remaining, his presence keeps the show grounded.
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Mentorship: Both on-screen and off-screen, he’s known for supporting younger actors and crew.
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Emotional Depth: His character, Dr. Webber, has tackled issues like alcoholism, aging, and legacy—offering relatable human struggles that go beyond the hospital setting.
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Professionalism: Colleagues often praise his respectful, collaborative, and passionate approach to work.
What Fans Can Expect Next
While Season 21 is already in motion, James Pickens Jr. made it clear that he’s not ready to say goodbye yet. He hopes the show ends when the story is naturally complete—not simply due to ratings or contract timelines.
Fans can expect:
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More emotional growth for Dr. Webber
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Potential leadership transitions in the hospital
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Deeper storylines related to aging, change, and letting go
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The continuation of his mentorship role for the next generation of surgeons
Conclusion: A Legacy Still in Motion
After 20 years on one of television’s most iconic shows, James Pickens Jr. remains an essential pillar of Grey’s Anatomy. His humility, work ethic, and love for the craft are evident every time he appears on screen. While many cast members have come and gone, Pickens’s steady presence continues to anchor the show’s heart.
With “interesting stuff ahead,” as he puts it, both longtime viewers and new fans have much to look forward to. James Pickens Jr. is more than just a familiar face—he’s a legacy in motion, proving that great storytelling still thrives in Season 21 and beyond.
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