Columbus Short is leaving ABC series “Scandal” after three seasons, an individual with knowledge of the situation told TheWrap.
Additionally, Short’s representative released the following statement from the actor:
“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 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.”
Spoiler alert! The actor’s exit could mean his character, Harrison Wright, didn’t survive the Season 3 finale cliffhanger.
Also read: ‘Scandal’ Star Columbus Short Exiting the ABC Drama Amid Domestic Violence Claim
After helping Rowan (Joe Morton) capture Maya (Khandi Alexander), Harrison realizes that the mastermind behind all that’s happened is actually Rowan. After confronting Rowan, Harrison finds himself on the wrong side of a pistol. Does Rowan have him killed? We don’t see that, nor do we hear a gunshot. But, with this news that may be his fate.
Short’s departure from the series comes amid personal and legal woes for the actor. As reported by TMZ earlier this month, Short’s wife Tanee — who has filed for divorce from the actor — claims that the actor put a knife to her throat and threatened to commit murder-suicide in a fit of jealousy, then slashed her tire as she fled.
Also read: Exclusive: Columbus Short, Alicja Bachleda Find ‘Trouble’
In March, the actor was arrested for felony battery after allegedly punching a man in the face and knocking him unconscious during an engagement party at Gabe’s Bar and Grill in Los Angeles.