A Grey's Anatomy star has apologised for using the word ‘faggot' to describe his now openly gay co-star. During a backstage interview at Monday's Golden Globes, Isaiah Washington denied involvement in a heated on-set incident last year during which the word "faggot" was reportedly uttered. "No, I did not call T.R. [Knight] a faggot," Washington told reporters. "Never happened, never happened." The controversy over the anti-gay comment boiled over this week as Washington bowed down to public pressure by issuing a lengthy apology after a sternly worded reprimand from TV network ABC. “We are greatly dismayed that Mr. Washington chose to use such inappropriate language at the Golden Globes, language that he himself deemed ‘unfortunate' in his previous public apology,” the ABC said in a statement. In his apology on Thursday, Washington acknowledged “repeating the word on Monday night.” “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. 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. "With one word, I've hurt everyone who has struggled for the respect so many of us take for granted," continued the statement, which was issued through Washington's publicist. "I welcome the chance to meet with leaders of the gay and lesbian community to apologize in person." “His actions are unacceptable and are being addressed.” Gay Ref: GayWired.com (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Saturday, 20th January 2007 - 12:00pm