Isaiah Washington Enrolls In Counseling
Embattled "Grey's Anatomy" star Isaiah Washington has enrolled in a counseling program, according to a statement from his rep, Kelly Mullens, given to The ShowBuzz on Wednesday.
The 43-year-old actor has been under fire since he used an anti-gay slur at a Golden Globes press conference last week after the hit ABC drama received an award.
"With the support of my family and friends, I have begun counseling. I regard this as a necessary step toward understanding why I did what I did and making sure it never happens again. I appreciate the fact that I have been given this opportunity and I remain committed to transforming my negative actions into positive results, personally and professionally," the statement said.
Life & Style magazine reported on its Web site Wednesday that the actor entered a residential treatment facility. The magazine reports that the actor agreed to undergo a psychological assessment after discussions with ABC executives.
Shonda Rhimes, the executive producer of "Grey's Anatomy," said in a statement that she applauds Washington's realization that he needs help.
"We've been working within the Grey's family as well as with ABC and Touchstone Television to address the issue in a way that underscores the gravity of the situation while giving us all a foundation for healing. We applaud and encourage Isaiah's realization that he needs help and his subsequent choice to seek immediate treatment for his behavioral issues," the statement said.Photos: Golden Globes
Washington opened old wounds when he answered a question about an October on-set argument with co-star Patrick Dempsey. During the argument, he allegedly referred to cast member T.R. Knight using an anti-gay slur.
"No, I did not call T.R. a 'faggot,' " Washington told reporters in the Golden Globes press room. "It never happened."
Last Friday, ABC issued a statement that said the network was dismayed at the actor's "inappropriate language."
Rumors have been swirling that the network may fire the actor.
As a sign of atonement, on Monday Washington took steps toward keeping a promise to reach out to the gay community. A spokesman for the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) confirmed to The ShowBuzz that Washington met with the organization's leader and the leader of Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) Monday afternoon in Los Angeles. The meeting was arranged by ABC.
"Isaiah understands that he is going to be judged by more than just his apology," GLAAD president Neil Giuliano said in a joint statement after the meeting. "He knows that his future actions — including the genuine first step that today's meeting represents — will demonstrate his sincerity in becoming part of the solution to anti-gay bigotry. We welcome the opportunity to work with him in the coming months to help improve the cultural climate faced by LGBT people across this country."
It's not known if the meeting will help Washington keep his job on the hit show, which ironically is nominated for a GLAAD media award in the outstanding individual episode category.
"I know the power of words, especially those that demean," Washington later said in a statement. "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."