Update: Isaiah Washington Issues An Apology

In response to mounting pressure and an earlier statement released by ABC, Grey's Anatomy star, Isaiah Washington has formally issued an apology following his remarks after the Golden Globes. “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 brass had released a statement earlier this afternoon saying that they were “dismayed” by comments the 43-year-old Grey’s Anatomy star made at the Golden Globe Awards press conference on Monday night and that the issue was "being addressed" . Washington was caught on tape using the word "faggot" in response to a reporter's question about the same homophobic slur he reportedly made towards costar T.R. Knight on the set of Grey’s last October. "I did not call T.R. a faggot," he told reporters in the pressroom on Monday. "Never happened, never happened."