Grey’s Anatomy star Isaiah Washington has revealed the cause of his wife Jenisa Washington's death, more than a year after losing his partner of 29 years.
The actor, 63, shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional social media post, explaining that Jenisa suddenly collapsed on May 31, 2025, before passing away nine days later on June 9.
Isaiah revealed that his wife had suffered a massive hemorrhagic stroke and never recovered, describing her death as a "huge shock" to their family.
© Getty Images"Yes…the rumors are true," he began alongside a black-and-white photograph of Jenisa. "My dear wife of 29 years collapsed suddenly on May 31, 2025 and passed away on June 9, 2025."
He continued: "It came as a huge shock to me and our entire family. She succumbed to a massive hemorrhagic stroke and never recovered."
The former Grey’s Anatomy star also used his post to urge his followers to pay attention to potentially serious health symptoms, particularly severe or unusual headaches.
© Getty Images"Some headaches are not just headaches or migraines, they can be much worse and a warning sign," he cautioned, encouraging people to seek medical attention if they are concerned.
Isaiah explained that he had kept Jenisa's death private for more than a year out of respect for his late wife, who preferred to remain away from the spotlight despite his lengthy Hollywood career.
"I don't know if this is an appropriate post, because Jenisa Washington was extremely private," he admitted, joking that he may have to answer to her "on the other side" for sharing the personal update.
© Getty ImagesHis post was flooded with supportive comments from friends, family and fans, including Debi Mazar and Viola Davis. His daughter Iman touchingly commented: "my beautiful mama i love this thank you dad!!"
The couple married on Valentine’s Day in 1996 after reportedly meeting at a dinner party in Los Angeles and went on to welcome three children together: sons Isaiah V and Tyme and daughter Iman.
Reflecting on the family Jenisa left behind, Isaiah added: "She left 3 incredibly amazing children behind to continue her legacy."
© GettyIsaiah is best known for portraying cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Preston Burke on Grey’s Anatomy, appearing as one of the medical drama’s original stars when it premiered in 2005.
His other credits include Spike Lee’s Crooklyn, Ghost Ship and Exit Wounds, while he made his directorial debut with the 2022 Western drama Corsicana.
