Isaiah Washington Returning to 'Grey's Anatomy'

With the departure of one Grey's Anatomy original comes the return of another.

The conclusion of Sandra Oh's time on the ABC drama will feature the return of Isaiah Washington as Dr. Preston Burke, the former love interest of Oh's Christina Chang. He will appear for one episode, which is set to air in May.

Washington famously left Grey's Anatomy in 2007 after disputes with series creator Shonda Rhimes, and some unpleasantness with the cast -- including the alleged use of a homophobic slur in reference to co-star T.R. Knight.

Credit: ABC

In subsequent years, Washington distanced himself from all association with the show, working in independent films (such as Blue Caprice) and limited TV roles (including The CW's upcoming show, The 100). Rhimes says bringing him back will now allow 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.”

So what do you think about Washington's return? Excited? Meh? Sound off in the comments!

Via: Variety