Isaiah Washington, the actor best known for portraying Dr. Preston Burke on the long-running medical drama "Grey's Anatomy," has announced his retirement from the entertainment industry. In a tweet on Friday, the actor cited a range of factors that led to his decision. However, it was Washington's pointed comments on the perils of woke politics, or "communism," that sparked a circulation of headlines.
"It is with a heavy heart and a sense of relief that I am announcing my early retirement from the entertainment industry today," Washington tweeted.
The famed actor went on to explain that he was tired of the ongoing criticism of his "Grey's" character, which was the final straw.
"Those who have been Following/Witnessing my journey here on T—ter since 2011 all know that I have fought the good fight, but it seems that the haters, provocateurs and the Useful Idiots have won," he wrote to his nearly 200,000 followers.
"I'm no longer interested in the back and forth regarding a 'color construct' that keeps us human beings divided nor am I interested in politics or anything vitriolic."
Instead, Washington says he plans to move on and travel "this great country before it falls into Socialism and then Communism. Until then, know that this Frederick Douglass Conservative will keep his powder dry and loves you all! I am truly grateful for your support over the years."
The "True Crime" star revealed that his final onscreen appearance would be in the film "Corsicana" (2022), which he directed and starred as the film's lead as the indomitable "Bass Reeves." Although he is retiring from acting, Washington assured fans that he will keep them up to date on his "retirement shenanigans here and there."
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