Jamie-Lynn Sigler Says She Once Hid MS in Fear of Losing Work

Jamie-Lynn Sigler is opening up about a deeply personal moment in her career — one that brought her to tears.

In a recent interview with ABC, the actress spoke about her guest appearance on Grey’s Anatomy, where she played Dr. Laura Kaplan, a urologist living with multiple sclerosis (MS). For Sigler, the role hit close to home. She was diagnosed with MS 25 years ago and spent much of her early career hiding it out of fear it would cost her work.

“To think back 25 years ago — when I was diagnosed and having to keep it a secret — and to now be in a position where my having MS inspired a role on a show like Grey’s Anatomy, I never would have believed it,” Sigler said.

When she was diagnosed, Sigler was just 20 years old and starring on HBO’s hit drama The Sopranos. At the time, she worried that revealing her condition would end her acting career before it truly began. As a result, she kept her diagnosis private for years.

Sigler didn’t publicly share her MS journey until 2017, when she spoke with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Since then, she has been more open about living with the disease — and using her platform to raise awareness.

On Jan. 15, Sigler appeared on Grey’s Anatomy as Dr. Kaplan, who advises Dr. Richard Webber — played by James Pickens Jr. — on treating his prostate cancer. The episode marked a rare and meaningful portrayal of a doctor with MS who is confident, capable, and thriving.

Sigler said her goal was to show someone “in their power” and to present an honest picture of what life with MS can look like.

“My very first take, where I do say the words ‘I have MS,’ was very emotional for me,” she shared.

For Sigler, the moment represented more than just another acting job. It was proof of how far she — and the industry — have come. What once felt like a career-ending secret has now become a source of strength, inspiration, and representation on one of television’s biggest shows.