Breaking News: Why Columbus Short Is Not Returning To Scandal For Season 4

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Reports have just come out that Columbus Short will not be returning to season 4 of Scandal.  Columbus Short has released an official statement that confirms he will be leaving the show. He expresses gratitude for the opportunity, and does not relay any hint whatsoever as to his reason for leaving. We don’t know if it was a career decision, a personal decision, or something decided by the show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes. Several sources suggest the actor’s recent personal troubles, which include charges of domestic violence, led to the actor being written off the show. Here’s what was said in Short’s public statement:

“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. I would like to first thank [creator] 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. 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.”

Columbus Short’s character, Harrison, ended his run on Scandal season 4 with a life or death cliffhanger. Did Shonda Rhimes know that that the end was near for Columbus Short and plan accordingly? Will Harrison’s character be killed off? Or will there be some other explanation for why he’s gone that leaves him open to return in the future?

Scandal has had a few setbacks with two male “Gladiators” leaving the show. In the first season, Stephen left Olivia to pursue other
options. Now Harrison is gone. Is there too much female firepower on the show for supporting men to handle? When Stephen’s character left in season one, the show went on without a replacement. With two gladiators gone, there’s no question there has to be a replacement. Without Harrison, Olivia does not have a male to relate to with whom she has a maintained a consistently positive relationship. What kind of character should replace Harrison? Should Shonda Rhimes pull a long lost brother out of
thin air? Is there someone else Olivia has “saved” who can join her crew? Post what you think will happen in the comments.