Isaiah Washington Confirms Wife's 2025 Death from Stroke
'Grey's Anatomy' actor shares the news and urges fans to take health concerns seriously.
Actor Isaiah Washington has confirmed the death of his wife, Jenisa Garland, who passed away in June 2025 following a "massive hemorrhagic stroke." Washington, known for his role as Dr. Preston Burke on "Grey's Anatomy," shared the news more than a year after his wife's passing.
"My dear wife of 29 years collapsed suddenly on May 31, 2025 and passed away on June 9, 2025," Washington stated on social media. "It came as a huge shock to me and our entire family. She succumbed to a massive hemorrhagic stroke and never recovered."
Washington encouraged his followers to prioritize their health, advising them to take symptoms like headaches seriously. "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."
Garland, who was described as extremely private by Washington, leaves behind three children. "She has been gone 16 months now, but she left 3 incredibly amazing children behind to continue her legacy."
Other celebrities offered condolences, with actress Viola Davis writing, "So very sorry Isaiah." Actor Michael Beach commented, "It is appropriate, brother. We all need to pay better attention to what we are going through physically and mentally. Love to you and your family."
Washington starred in the first three seasons of "Grey's Anatomy" from 2005 to 2007. In 2006, he was involved in a controversy on set. He later apologized for his actions and words during an incident involving co-star Patrick Dempsey, though he has since expressed that he believes he did nothing wrong and would not apologize again.
Washington briefly returned to "Grey's Anatomy" in 2014 for an episode to facilitate the departure of actress Sandra Oh. He recently indicated a desire to return to acting, stating on social media, "I have said 'no' for 3 years now. Time to say 'yes' and get back on the big screen with a BANG! Keep watching me…"
