Actor Isaiah Washington is returning to Grey’s Anatomy for one episode slated to air in May. Washington played cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Preston Burke before his own loose lips caused him to be chased from the show amid allegations of homophobia in 2007.
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Washington’s brief return is being sparked by the departure of another original member of the cast. Actress Sandra Oh, who plays Cristina Yang, will be leaving the show. Creator Shonda Rhimes says bringing Washington back allows for the "full-circle moment we need to properly say goodbye to our beloved Cristina Yang.”
“It’s important to me that Cristina’s journey unfolds exactly as it should,” Rhimes said. “Burke is vital to that journey.”
Grey's Anatomy is produced for ABC Studios through the Mark Gordon Company.