News / Entertainment
One "Grey’s Anatomy" star let go
Isaiah Washington won’t be returning to play Dr. Preston Burke on ABC’s hit medical drama "Grey’s Anatomy."
Washington caused controversy when he openly called fellow cast member T.R. Knight a "faggot" last year on-set. Washington’s contract was not renewed with ABC.
After Washington made the anti-gay statement about Knight, Knight openly announced he was gay.
Last week T.R. Knight confirmed that Washington said it on-set and then denied ever saying it. Washington used the anti-gay slur again while backstage at the Golden Globe Awards this year where "Grey’s Anatomy" won best television drama.
Washington did not elaborate after he issued a statement saying "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore."
Gay rights groups along with cast member Katherine Heigl publicly spoke out against Washington. "This is something that will have changed the scope of his life," Heigl said. She also said that Washington was "sorry and embarrassed" for his actions.
Washington said he was seeking therapy and he met with officials from the Gay, Lesbian, & Straight Education Network and the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. He also filmed a public service announcement where he said "words have power" to "hurt or heal."
In May Washington’s publicist said he planned to spend the summer doing his charity work and not worrying about the show.
