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Isaiah Washington, who plays surgeon Dr. Preston Burke in Grey's Anatomy, will not be returning to the hit US medical drama following his anti-gay slur.
The actor, who plays surgeon Dr. Preston Burke on the hit US medical show, has been told his contract won't be renewed.
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.
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 criticised 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."
Washington attempted to make amends by seeking therapy and meeting with the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
He also filmed a public service announcement, saying "words have power to hurt or heal".
ABC bosses' decision was also reportedly made because of Washington's difficult behaviour on the set.
The actor plans to continue his Sierra Leone charity work and work on an independent film.
Meanwhile, T.R. Knight, who plays Dr. George O'Malley, has secured a US$125,000-per-episode deal for the next series following months of speculation about his future on the show.
- BANG! SHOWBIZ
