Series regular Columbus Short has released a statement through his publicist confirming he has left ABC drama Scandal. Short’s statement is predictably vague, but the actor is currently facing a litany of legal troubles stemming from a bar fight and accusations of domestic violence. Despite this abrupt exit, Short has nothing but nice things to say about series creator Shonda Rhimes, the show, and its cast:
“At this time I must confirm my exit from a show I’ve called home for three years, with what is the most talented ensemble on television today. I would like to first thank Shonda Rhimes for the opportunity to work with such an amazing cast. Thank you Gladiators, who have supported me throughout my entire career and of course to ABC and Shondaland for allowing me to play such a pivotal role in the Scandal series. I have enjoyed every single minute of it. Everything must come to an end, and unfortunately the time has come for Harrison Wright to exit the canvas. I wish nothing but the best for Shonda, Kerry [Washington] and the rest of the cast, who have become like a second family to me in such a short amount of time. For this, I will forever be grateful.”
Last week’s season finale ended on something of a cliffhanger, with Short’s character, Harrison, facing down the barrel of a gun after putting together the nefarious scheme carried out by Joe Morton’s Rowan Pope. This development seems to confirm Harrison’s demise.