James Pickens Jr. Calls Grey’s Anatomy’s Longevity ‘Lightning In A Bottle’ – Looper

Before becoming a chief medical officer on “Grey’s Anatomy,” James Pickens, Jr. had a list of acting credits that included playing the role of Henry Thomas for 10 episodes of “Beverly Hills, 90210” and playing the role of Detective Mike McKrew during 15 episodes of “The Practice.” But none of his roles have lasted as long as that of Dr. Richard Webber, the mentor and boss who is just trying to keep everyone on the same page. Pickens, Jr. told The Lede, “And at that point in my career, when the show began, I was, you know, quote-unquote, a mature actor. So I already knew that these kinds of roles are few and far between. So to be able to grab hold of lightning in a bottle like that is more than I ever could have dreamed of …” Pickens, Jr. noted that executive producer Jim Parriott believed that the show would change TV dramas. Still, that success was something that Pickens, Jr. nor Shonda Rhimes ever imagined.

Even though she is no longer a series regular, Ellen Pompeo has predicted more success for the show. She told Entertainment Tonight, “It’s a really good piece of content, and we’re going to try to keep it going for the young people, not necessarily with me, but keep it going beyond me,” she said.