Jamie-Lynn Sigler recently opened up in an emotional interview with ABC about her guest role on “Grey’s Anatomy” as a doctor with multiple sclerosis. The actress, who was diagnosed with MS 25 years ago, revealed that she initially kept her condition a secret out of fear of losing work opportunities.
Reflecting on her journey, Sigler shared, “To think back 25 years ago — when I was diagnosed and having to keep it a secret, thinking that if anybody knew that I had MS, that meant that I would never work again — and to now be in a position where my having MS inspired a role in a storyline on a show like ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ I never would have believed you.”
At the age of 20, Sigler received her MS diagnosis while working on the acclaimed HBO series “The Sopranos.” It wasn’t until 2017 that she decided to go public with her condition, speaking candidly with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
On January 15, viewers saw Sigler make her appearance on “Grey’s Anatomy” as Dr. Laura Kaplan, a urologist with MS. In her episode, she shared valuable advice with Dr. Richard Webber (played by James Pickens Jr.) on treating prostate cancer.
Sigler expressed that her main goal with this role was to portray someone with MS in a position of strength and empowerment, offering an authentic representation of living well with the condition. She admitted that delivering her character’s line revealing her MS diagnosis was particularly emotional for her during filming.
The actress’s portrayal on “Grey’s Anatomy” not only sheds light on the experiences of individuals living with MS but also serves as a personal milestone in Sigler’s journey of acceptance and empowerment. Her willingness to share her story and bring visibility to MS in mainstream media is a testament to her courage and determination.
