The subject of scandalous allegations in his personal life, “Scandal” star Columbus Short announced this week that he will not return for season four of ABC’s flagship drama.
“At this time I must confirm my exit from a show I’ve called home for 3 years, with what is the most talented ensemble on television today,” said Short, who played Harrison Wright, in a statement issued by his publicist. “I would like to first thank [creator and executive producer] 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.”
The series’ third season finale provided itself with a means of explaining Harrison’s disappearance from the show. In one of the episode’s final moments, Rowan Pope (Joe Morton) and Tom Larsen (Brian Letscher) held Harrison at gunpoint. While Harrison’s murder was not confirmed, the scene definitely signposted the character’s demise.
Short added, “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.”
