Isaiah Washington to Return to 'Grey's Anatomy'

Over seven years after getting axed for using derogatory slurs regarding gay castmate T.R. Knight, Isaiah Washington will be returning to "Grey's Anatomy."

The return of character Dr. Preston Burke will be a part of the exit of character Cristina Yang, as actress Sandra Oh departs the show at this end of this season.

Washington is set to appear for a single episode, to hopefully round out the storyline of long-time character Cristina.

”It’s important to me that Cristina’s journey unfolds exactly as it should,” show creator Shonda Rhimes said, regarding why Washington has been invited back. “Burke is vital to that journey — he gives her story that full-circle moment we need to properly say goodbye to our beloved Cristina Yang.”

Washington's character Burke originally left Cristina at the altar in season three, a storyline required by a hasty letting go of Washington after a confrontation with actor Patrick Dempsey involved Washington using the word "f****t" toward T.R. Knight.

He was quickly fired from the show.

LGBT and GLAAD have been open with their approval of Washington's return.

"His PSA and his statements promoting marriage equality in recent years have sent a strong message of support for LGBT people," a spokesman said.

Washington has appeared in small parts on "Single Ladies" and "Law & Order: LA" since he was fired from "Grey's," and will appear in the CW's "!00," premiering this month, but has had difficulty regaining the commercial appeal he maintained as stoic but loving character Preston Burke.

What do "Grey's Anatomy" fans think of his return? Sound off in the comments!