Isaiah Washington issues statement on 'anti-gay' remarks

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January 19, 2007

Isaiah Washington issues statement on 'anti-gay' remarks

Isaiah Washington of Grey's Anatomy said he had "never" called gay castmate T.R. Knight "a faggot" at Monday's Golden Globes. Knight had earlier told Ellen DeGeneres that he had heard Washington use the term during a scuffle with Patrick Dempsey on the set of "Grey's Anatomy."

Isaiah Washington had seen issued a statement.

"I apologize to T.R., my colleagues, the fans of the show and especially the lesbian and gay community for using a word that is unacceptable in any context or circumstance. By repeating the word Monday night, I marred what should have been a perfect night for everyone who works on "Grey's Anatomy." I can neither defend nor explain my behavior. I can also no longer deny to myself that there are issues I obviously need to examine within my own soul, and I've asked for help.

I know the power of words, especially those that demean. I realize that by using one filled with disrespect, I have hurt more than T.R. and my colleagues. With one word, I've hurt everyone who has struggled for the respect so many of us take for granted. I welcome the chance to meet with leaders of the gay and lesbian community to apologize in person and to talk about what I can do to heal the wounds I've opened.

T.R.'s courage throughout this entire episode speaks to his tremendous character. I hold his talent, and T.R. as a person, in high esteem. I know a mere apology will not end this, and I intend to let my future actions prove my sincerity."

ABC has gotten around to responding to Isaiah Washington's use of a gay slur at the Golden Globes. The ABC statement, first reported by TV Guide, reads:

"We have a long-standing policy to create and maintain respectful workplaces for all our employees. We dealt with the original situation in October, and thought the issue resolved. Therefore, we are greatly dismayed that Mr. Washington chose to use such inappropriate language at the Golden Globes, that he himself deemed 'unfortunate' in his previous public apology. We take this situation very seriously, and his actions are unacceptable and are being addressed."