Just eight days after Scandal's Season 3 finale, actor Columbus Short confirmed today that he is not returning to the series. Take a look at the actor's full statement below, where he thanks ABC, series creator Shonda Rhimes, and the shows fans, affectionately known as "Gladiators."

"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 [creator] 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 (Washington) 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."

ABC has still not confirmed whether or not the show itself is coming back for a fourth season, but a renewal seems likely since the Season 3 finale, "The Price of Free and Fair Election, attracted a series record 10.6 million viewers on April 17. The finale featured Rowan (Joe Morton) holding Columbus Short's Harrison Wright at gunpoint, leaving his fate in question. It isn't known how they plan to write off the character, if ABC issues a renewal.

Columbus Short has been with the series since it launched on ABC in 2012. The actor is also facing somewhat of a real-life scandal himself, after accusations surfaced this week that he threatened to kill his wife, Tanee Short, who filed a restraining order against her husband. In March, the actor was facing four years in prison for a bar fight, but the alleged victim refused to press charges. Its still possible that a criminal case could move forward, but without the victim's participation it seems unlikely. What do you think about the actor leaving this hit ABC series? Chime in with your thoughts below.