Grey’s Anatomy has been captivating audiences for nearly two decades, and part of its success can be attributed to the talented and diverse cast of characters that have graced our screens over the years. While some cast members have come and gone, there are a few familiar faces that have been a constant presence since the beginning. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the six oldest Grey’s Anatomy main cast members and exploring their journeys on the show.
From the wise and experienced Dr. Richard Webber to the beloved and quirky Dr. Miranda Bailey, these actors have brought their characters to life in unforgettable ways. So whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, join us as we pay tribute to the veterans of Grey’s Anatomy and celebrate their contributions to the show’s enduring legacy.
6. Jesse Williams (August 5, 1981 – present)
Age: 41 years old
Role: Jackson Avery
Spouse: Aryn Drake-Lee
Years Active: 2006 to present
photo source: Vanity Fair
Jesse Williams is an American actor, producer, and director, best known for his role as Jackson Avery in the medical drama series “Grey’s Anatomy”. He was born on August 5, 1981, which makes him currently 41 years old. Williams was married to Aryn Drake-Lee, a real estate broker, in 2012, but they divorced in 2017.
Williams began his acting career in 2006 with small roles in various TV shows and films, including “Law & Order,” “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2,” and “Greek.” However, his breakthrough role came in 2009 when he was cast in “Grey’s Anatomy.” He also directed several episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy” and a short film titled “Xander and the Peace Pirates.”
Did You Know?
He has produced several documentaries, including “Stay Woke: The Black Lives Matter Movement,” which premiered in 2016.
5. Katherine Heigl (November 24, 1978 – present)
Age: 44 years old
Role: Izzie Stevens
Spouse: Josh Kelley
Years Active: 1992 to present
photo source: E! Online
Katherine Heigl starred as Dr. Isobel “Izzie” Stevens in Grey’s Anatomy for six seasons from 2005 to 2010. During her time on the show, she became a popular and beloved character among fans of the series. In addition to her Emmy Award win for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a drama series in 2007, Heigl was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress in a series in 2008.
However, Heigl’s departure from “Grey’s Anatomy” was controversial. In 2008, she withdrew her name from Emmy consideration, stating that she did not believe her character had been given good enough material that season to warrant a nomination. Then in 2010, Heigl asked to be released from her contract early, citing her desire to spend more time with her family and pursue other projects.
Did You Know?
In a 2012 interview with Marie Claire, she criticized the writing of “Grey’s Anatomy,” which some perceived as biting the hand that fed her. However, Heigl has since taken steps to rehabilitate her image and has continued to work in the industry.
4. Eric Dane (November 9, 1972 – present)
Age: 50 years old
Role: Dr. Mark Sloan
Spouse: Rebecca Gayheart
Years Active: 1991 to present
photo source: The Hollywood Reporter
Eric Dane is known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan in the show. He was born on November 9, 1972, in San Francisco, California. In the series, Dane played the character of Dr. Mark Sloan, a plastic surgeon known for his playboy reputation and his on-again, off-again relationship with Dr. Lexie Grey, played by Chyler Leigh. His character was also known for his close friendship with Dr. Derek Shepherd, played by Patrick Dempsey.
Dane joined the cast of “Grey’s Anatomy” in 2006, and his character quickly became a fan favorite. He continued to play the role of Dr. Mark Sloan until 2012, when his character was written off the show. Dane’s departure from the series was due to his desire to pursue other projects and spend more time with his family.
Did You Know?
He has been involved in several philanthropic causes, including the fight against hunger and support for those living with HIV/AIDS.
3. Justin Chambers (July 11, 1970 – present)
Age: 52 years old
Role: Alex Karev
Spouse: Keisha Chambers
Years Active: 1995 to present
photo source: Cosmopolitan
Justin Chambers played the role of Dr. Alex Karev in “Grey’s Anatomy.” In the series, Dr. Alex Karev, a surgical resident, is known for his tough exterior and troubled past. Over the course of the series, his character evolved into a loyal friend and respected surgeon, and he became a fan favorite.
Chambers joined the cast in 2005 and continued to play the role of Alex Karev for 16 seasons until his departure from the show in 2020. His decision to leave the series was announced in January 2020, and his final episode aired in March of that year. In his personal life, Chambers has been married to Keisha Chambers since 1993, and they have five children together.
Did You Know?
Chambers’ portrayal of Alex Karev earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series in 2007.
2. Ellen Pompeo (November 10, 1969 – present)
Age: 53 years old
Role: Meredith Grey
Spouse: Chris Ivery
Years Active: 1995 to present
photo source: Marca
Ellen Pompeo is an American actress, renowned for her performance as Dr. Meredith Grey in the medical drama series. Playing the character of Dr. Meredith Grey, Pompeo portrayed the daughter of a renowned surgeon who is known for her intelligence, strength, and resilience, as well as her complex relationships with colleagues and family members.
Throughout the show’s 17 seasons, Meredith became the central character of the show, and Pompeo became one of the highest-paid actresses on television. In addition to her successful career in acting, Ellen Pompeo has a fulfilling personal life. She has been married to Chris Ivery, a music producer, since 2007. The couple has three children together, two daughters and a son.
Did You Know?
She has been an advocate for pay equity and was instrumental in negotiating a record-breaking $20 million per season salary for her work on “Grey’s Anatomy.”
1. Patrick Dempsey (January 13, 1966 – present)
Age: 57 years old
Role: Dr. Derek Shepherd
Spouse: Rocky Parker, Jillian Fink
Years Active: 1985 to present
photo source: TODAY
Patrick Dempsey is an American actor and racecar driver, born on January 13, 1966, in Lewiston, Maine. He is best known for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd, also known as “McDreamy,” on the series and is considered the oldest Grey’s Anatomy main cast member. As Dr. Shepherd, Dempsey portrayed a skilled neurosurgeon who was also known for his good looks, charm, and tumultuous relationship with Dr. Meredith Grey, played by Ellen Pompeo. .
Dempsey has been married twice. His first marriage was to actress and acting coach Rocky Parker, and his second marriage is to Jillian Fink, a makeup artist. Dempsey and Fink have three children together. At 57 years old, Dempsey continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and a beloved figure among fans of the show.
Did You Know?
Dempsey is also an accomplished racecar driver. He has participated in various races around the world, including the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans.
