Actor Columbus Short will not be returning to ABC’s hit Washington, D.C. drama Scandal due to his recent legal troubles.

Columbus Short Leaving 'Scandal'

Short, 31, who’s been starring on the political thriller as Harrison Wright for all three seasons, announced his decision in a statement on Friday, reported the New York Daily News.

"At this time, I must confirm my exit from a show I've called home for three years, with what is the most talented ensemble on television today," Short said. "I would like to first thank Shonda Rhimes for the opportunity to work with such an amazing cast."

"Everything must come to an end, and unfortunately the time has come for Harrison Wright to exit the canvas," Short said. "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."

Short currently has two criminal cases pending. The first implicates the actor for felony battery for allegedly seriously injuring a man outside a West Hollywood restaurant in March. Short could be sentenced to four years behind bars if convicted.

The Stomp the Yard actor also been charged with misdemeanor spousal battery after an alleged attack on his wife, Tuere Short, back in February. Although he’s pleaded not guilty, in a March 5 hearing, he was ordered to keep his distance from his wife. He’ll face the charge in court May 13.

On April 15, Tuere Short filed for divorce from Columbus Short. She also obtained a temporary restraining order, claiming that the actor had tried to choke her while threatening to kill both of them earlier in the month. Tuere is also seeking full custody of their two-year-old daughter.

– Chelsea Regan