Washington fumed: "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore."
The actor's publicist Howard Bragman revealed his client had been told he
was "not invited back to the show next season" yesterday (07.06.07).

The 43-year-old star sparked outrage after reportedly using a homophobic
word backstage at the Golden Globes Awards in January, while denying it he
had previously used it on set towards co-star T.R. Knight.

Cast member Katherine Heigl publicly criticized Washington, forcing him to
issue an apology.

Heigel, who plays Dr. Izzie Stevens in the show, said: "He made a big
mistake, and it was thoughtless and boneheaded, and I think he's very sorry
and embarrassed. This is something that will have changed the scope of his
life."

ABC bosses' decision was also reportedly made because of Washington's
difficult behaviour on the set.