Actor Isaiah Washington publicly confirmed the death of his wife, Jenisa Washington, more than a year after she passed away. In an Instagram post on May 31, 2025, Washington announced that his wife of 29 years collapsed suddenly and later died on June 9, 2025, after suffering a massive hemorrhagic stroke.
Washington stated that the event came as a huge shock to him and their family. He described the stroke as a warning sign and urged others to take persistent headaches seriously, advising that some headaches may indicate more severe conditions requiring medical attention. Washington also shared that his wife left behind three children—Isaiah V, Tyme, and Iman—to carry on her legacy.
The actor reflected on his wife’s privacy, noting that she was extremely private and questioning whether his post was appropriate. He concluded by saying, “I guess I just have to be reprimanded from her on the other side.”
Washington, best known for his role as Dr. Preston Burke on Grey’s Anatomy, also paid tribute to comedian Reggie McFadden, crediting him with introducing him to Jenisa in 1995.
Background and Context
Isaiah and Jenisa Washington were married in February 1996 and remained together for nearly three decades. Washington starred in the first three seasons of Grey’s Anatomy from 2005 to 2007 before his departure from the show. He later returned as a guest star in 2014.
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures, often due to uncontrolled high blood pressure, trauma, or blood thinner complications. Symptoms include sudden severe headache, confusion, trouble speaking, loss of balance, facial drooping, and blurred vision, according to medical sources.
Washington’s post has drawn responses from peers, including Viola Davis, who expressed condolences, and Michael Beach, who emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body. Washington’s career also includes roles in The 100 and P-Valley, as well as his earlier work in In Living Color, where McFadden introduced him to Jenisa.