Gray’s Anatomy’s Steven W. Bailey Recognized With Neuromuscular Dysfunction

Steven W. Bailey, who portrayed Joe on Gray’s Anatomy, has revealed he has been recognized with a uncommon neuromuscular situation known as Congenital Myasthenia Syndrome (CMS).

The 54-year-old actor shared on X that the dysfunction has been affecting his life and profession for fairly a while now. CMS is a genetic situation that weakens communication between the mind and muscle groups, inflicting weak point that worsens with exercise. In line with medical professionals, the situation could make routine actions, comparable to strolling or lifting objects, more and more troublesome over time.

Bailey defined that the development of the illness had put him in a wheelchair. Nonetheless, he stays capable of stroll brief distances, which permits him to nonetheless have the ability to act. He mentioned that he might nonetheless “object to the choose, derail a city assembly, or yell at a cop for being a unfastened cannon.” He added that he intends to tackle roles that replicate his sickness, stating that it is very important have an correct illustration of individuals with disabilities within the leisure trade.

Regardless of having CMS, the actor nonetheless manages to channel positivity and a humorousness into his message. He jokingly mentioned that his prognosis had gotten him out of doing dishes and laundry. He concluded his publish by reassuring followers that he’s nonetheless the identical particular person he was earlier than he received the illness. Bailey wrote, “Similar man. Similar actor. Similar artist. Now with wheels.”

He obtained a variety of help from his followers after sharing his prognosis, with many taking to social media to precise their admiration for his honesty and resilience. His followers wished him properly and acknowledged that they hoped to see him proceed to construct his profession as an actor.

Bailey is finest identified for his position as Joe, the proprietor of a bar frequented by the medical doctors in Gray’s Anatomy, starring in over 30 episodes of the medical drama. The actor has additionally appeared in a number of different TV exhibits, together with Buffy the Vampire Slayer, NCIS, Angel, Trendy Household, Scandal, Chicago Hearth, You, and Swiped.

Gray’s Anatomy returns on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 10 PM ET and seven:00 PM PT on ABC.