Steven W. Bailey, Joe the Bartender in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, Reveals Devastating Health Diagnosis
Steven W. Bailey, diagnosed with rare Congenital Myasthenia Syndrome, reveals impact on mobility and acting, using a powered wheelchair increasingly, after hiding symptoms for over five years.
- On Friday, January 2, 2026, Steven W. Bailey, actor, posted an open letter on X revealing his diagnosis of congenital myasthenia syndrome, which he first disclosed to People in April 2025.
- Steven W. Bailey said he long kept the condition private for career and diagnostic reasons, concealing it for over five years but now feeling he is `done hiding`.
- Medically, CMS interrupts nerve-to-muscle signaling, Bailey explained, causing his hands, arms and legs to tire quicker and sometimes tighten or shut down during sustained movement.
- Increasingly using a powered wheelchair, Bailey said his work will adapt and should "start skewing more wheelchair" as he aims to perform characters who live with a chair.
- Known for Joe on Grey's Anatomy, Bailey has a long TV résumé including Chicago Fire and received well-wishes from followers, closing with hope to see fans again soon.
53 Articles
53 Articles
'Grey's Anatomy' star reveals battle with rare genetic disorder, now an ambulatory wheelchair user
The actor has also appeared on "Modern Family," "You," "Scandal," and "Chicago Fire." Michael Desmond/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Steven W. Bailey as Joe on 'Grey's Anatomy'Grey's Anatomy star Steven W. Bailey is opening up about a rare genetic neuromuscular disorder he's privately dealt with for years and his experience as a new wheelchair user."Out of career caution, diagnostic uncertainty, and being private about such thing…
Grey’s Anatomy star Steven W Bailey shares rare health diagonsis: ‘Same guy
‘Professionally, this is changing me as an actor,’ wrote Bailey
'Grey's Anatomy' Star Steven W. Bailey Says Shocking Diagnosis Made Him Start Using Wheelchair
"Grey's Anatomy" star Steven W. Bailey is done hiding his rare genetic disorder, which sometimes requires him to use a wheelchair ... and he hopes his bravery doesn't cost him his career. The actor opened up in a lengthy X thread over the weekend,…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 48% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium






















