Washington Seeks Counseling for Homophobia

"Grey's Anatomy" star Isaiah Washington has entered into a residential treatment facility to begin counseling related to his recent homophobic remarks, the actor's publicist confirms.

"With the support of my family and friends, I have begun counseling," Washington said in a prepared statement. “I regard this as a necessary step toward understanding why I did what I did and making sure it never happens again. I appreciate the fact that I have been given this opportunity and I remain committed to transforming my negative actions into positive results, personally and professionally."

Washington met with Neil G. Giuliano, president of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) and Kevin Jennings, founder and executive director of the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN), Tuesday and offered to help in educating the public about the cruelty of such words, an offer the activists called sincere.

"Grey's Anatomy" creator Shonda Rhimes issued a statement saying ""I speak for all the executive producers here at 'Grey's Anatomy' when I say that Isaiah Washington's use of such a disturbing word was a shocking and dismaying event that insulted not only gays and lesbians everywhere but anyone who has ever struggled for respect in a world that is not always accepting of difference."

Rhimes' statement went on to say "We’ve been working within the 'Grey's' family as well as with ABC and Touchstone Television to address the issue in a way that underscores the gravity of the situation while giving us all a foundation for healing. We applaud and encourage Isaiah's realization that he needs help and his subsequent choice to seek immediate treatment for his behavioral issues. "

Washington called co-star T.R. Knight a "faggot" while arguing with another cast member, Patrick Dempsey, on the set of 'Grey's Anatomy' in October. He also used the word during a press happening at the Golden Globes last week.

T.R. Knight decided to come out of the closet following the incident.