Columbus Short will not return to the fourth season of ABC’s hit political drama Scandal, reports Indiewire.
In last week’s season three finale, Short’s character Harrison Wright was head at gunpoint by a B-613 operative, leaving viewers wondering what Wright’s fate would be.
In addition to Short’s character’s dilemma, his off-screen life has not proved any less troublesome. One month ago, Short was involved in a bar fight in Los Angeles, allegedly knocking a man out. He was subsequently charged with a felony count of battery with serious bodily injury.
“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,” Short said in a statement. “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.”
Though Shonda Rhime’s political thriller has not yet been officially renewed by ABC, last season’s strong ratings are a good indicator that the network will give the show another season.