'Scandal's' Columbus Short Not Asked to Return For Fourth Season of Hit ABC Series

It looks like a Scandal is brewing.

Actor on the hit ABC series Scandal, Columbus Short, will not be returning to the drama when the series returns in the fall for a fourth season. The news of his sudden departure comes a few weeks after Short was charged for battery, after being arrested during a bar fight.

Short released a statement this past weekend to address the news.

"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 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."

A source confirms this news to E! News and adds that it was not Shorts decision to leave the show but rather the decision of the shows creative team. The source says that the decision was made for "creative purposes." No news yet from ABC, who has yet to pick the show up for a fourth season.

The last few months have not been great for Short. After getting charged with battery, and not being asked to return to the show, his wife Tuere Tanee also filed for a divorce from the actor, citing irreconcilable differences. On top of that Tanee, who is Short's second wife was also granted a temporary restraining order from him.