Exclusive! Grey's Fires Isaiah Washington
Isaiah Washington by Ron Tom/ABC
Yeah, you read that headline correctly.
Multiple sources are telling me that Isaiah Washington will not be returning to
Grey's Anatomy next season. An ABC Studios spokesperson confirms that the actor's contract option has not been picked up, but declined further comment.
One insider, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation, speculated that the decision was likely due only in part to the T.R. Knight homophobic-slur scandal and the subsequent fallout. "There was a pattern of problematic behavior going back before he used the F-word," says my spy. "I imagine [his dismissal] was the result of all of that."
Washington's rep, Howard Bragman, confirmed the news, adding that his client was informed by
Grey's executive producer Shonda Rhimes earlier today that he was not being invited back to the show. In a statement, Washington, referencing the iconic line from
Network, said, "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore." (He's kidding.... I think.)
Plot-wise, it won't be difficult to explain Washington's absence. In last month's season finale, Burke left Cristina at the altar and moved out of their apartment.
Personally, I think ABC did the right thing. As much as I'll miss Burke, Washington's behavior was inexcusable and it was tearing apart the show. But enough about me and my opinion, what do
you think of ABC's decision to fire Isaiah? Sound off below....
POLL: Do you think ABC was right to fire Isaiah?
Vote here.
