Isaiah Washington Reveals Wife Jenisa Died of a Stroke More Than a Year Ago
"Grey's Anatomy" alum Isaiah Washington has revealed that his wife of 29 years, Jenisa Garland Washington, died more than a year ago after suffering a massive stroke.
The actor, 63, shared the news in an Instagram post over the weekend, about 16 months after her death. Jenisa collapsed on May 31, 2025, and died nine days later, on June 9, 2025.
'A Huge Shock'
Washington addressed the loss after rumors began circulating online.
"Yes…the rumors are true. It came as a huge shock to me and our entire family," he wrote, according to Complex. "She succumbed to a massive hemorrhagic stroke and never recovered."
He also explained why he had kept the news private for so long, and admitted he was not sure he should share it at all.
"I don't know if this is an appropriate post, because Jenisa Washington was extremely private, but I guess I just have to be reprimanded by her on the other side," he wrote.
A Nearly 30-Year Love Story
Isaiah and Jenisa met at a dinner party in Los Angeles and married on Valentine's Day in 1996, according to TheGrio.
The couple had three children together: Tyme, Iman and Isaiah V. They also launched a clothing company, SOLD Apparel, together.
Washington is best known for playing heart surgeon Dr. Preston Burke on "Grey's Anatomy" from 2005 to 2007, a role that made him one of the most recognizable faces on television. He returned to the show for a guest appearance in 2014. The hit medical drama has faced its own heartbreak in recent years, including the death of former co-star Eric Dane earlier this year.
Washington announced in 2023 that he was stepping back from acting, though he has continued to take on select projects. He has since focused on raising the couple's children, Rolling Out reported.
'Some Headaches Are Not Just Headaches'
Washington used his post to share an urgent health message with his followers.
"Listen, y'all…some headaches are not just headaches or migraines, they can be much worse and a warning sign," he wrote. "Get a brain scan if you can and take those headaches seriously."
A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts and bleeds. It is less common than an ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blockage, but it is often more deadly. One of the most common warning signs is a sudden, severe headache, sometimes described as the worst headache of a person's life.
High blood pressure is one of the biggest risk factors for this type of stroke, which is why health advocates stress regular screenings. Strokes can also strike people who seem healthy, as Donald Glover revealed when he shared that a stroke forced him to cancel his 2024 tour.
Know the Signs of a Stroke
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone in the country has a stroke about every 40 seconds.
Doctors often use the acronym BE FAST to help people recognize a stroke: sudden loss of Balance, changes in the Eyes or vision, Face drooping, Arm or leg weakness, Speech trouble, and Time to call 911.
A sudden, severe headache, especially with confusion, vomiting or a stiff neck, should be treated as an emergency. Anyone with these symptoms should call 911 right away, because fast treatment can save lives.
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