The World vs. Grey's Anatomy Homo-phobe Isaiah Washington

If you have been living in a box, then you don't know that ABC is under fire to quickly handle Grey's Anatomy star, Isaiah Washington's, use of the word faggot when referring to his gay co-star, TR Knight.

TR Knight actually said his 'gay bashing' by his co-star was what forced him out of the closet.  The big question is... now what should happen to Isaiah Washington?  Many believe that he should get the boot, and ABC has really neglected to comment at all.  Until now...

"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."

PerezHilton.com is calling for an ABC boycott until Washington is fired.  Singer John Mayer is even suggesting a unique approach to dealing with the problem in his blog, make Washington's character gay.

I would like to offer my suggestion for a solution; produce an episode of Grey's Anatomy in which Mr. Washington's character, Dr. Burke comes out to his friends and colleagues as a gay man!!! What better way for an actor to get to the roots of his discrimination than by portraying the very the subject of his own ire for the remainder of his contract? That'll learn ya!

In case any writers of the show happen to be reading, I have included some possible script excerpts that might help get this story line up and running.

Now Washington is apologizing as he released this 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."

Too little too late?