Grey's Anatomy fans have been issued a health update by a former star of the show, who says he is 'done hiding'.
Steven W. Bailey played Joe the Bartender in seasons two and three, and five to seven.
However, viewers noticed that he was quietly written out after season seven, when he and his Emerald City Bar disappeared from our screens.
One fan quizzed online: "Y'all whatever happened to joe on Grey's Anatomy. He was a good bartender/character."
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Another added: "Grey's Anatomy started going downhill when we stopped seeing Joe the bartender."
Now, Steven has shared that a lot has been going on behind the scenes in his life, following the diagnosis of a rare disorder.
The 54-year-old revealed he has congenital myasthenia syndrome, also known as CMS.
“I’ve spent years being cautious, private, and quiet about something that has been shaping my life and my work,” the star wrote in a thread on X.
“That time is over,” he bravely admitted, later adding he was 'done hiding'.
Steven - who has also appeared in the likes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Scandal, and NCIS - continued: “Turns out I have a rather rare genetic neuromuscular disorder. Weird, right? It’s called Congenital Myasthenia Syndrome, or CMS. Out of career caution, diagnostic uncertainty, and being private about such things in general, I have been hiding my battle with this disease for over five years. Time to stop.”
CMS can cause muscle weakness, which worsens with physical activity, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The actor revealed the syndrome causes his 'hands, arms and legs tire quicker than they should, which makes them weaker than, well … anticipated'.
He shared that he has been using a powered wheelchair to make life easier.
“The truth is, as my disease progresses, I have been using a powered wheelchair more and more to get around. Professionally, this is changing me as an actor,” Steven wrote.
Despite this, he says he can 'still perform on my feet, limitedly' but will be acting mostly in his wheelchair.
Steven went on to say: “Now I am here — done hiding — with a clear understanding of my disease, wheels firmly beneath me, ready for the next chapter in my life and career.
“I am hopeful that there is still room for me in this industry that I love. I look forward to performing as characters who live their lives with a chair, creating a more representative world in film and television.”
He concluded his statement: “Same guy. Same actor. Same artist. Now with wheels.”
Fans were quick to share their support online, with one writing: “Thank you for sharing your story! I hope to see you again soon on the tv and I hope you continue to find a positive and fulfilling path forward personally and professionally.”
Another added: “Can’t wait to continue to support you and all that you do sending you love.”
Topics: TV And Film, Grey's Anatomy, Health, Entertainment
Jen Thomas