Grey's Anatomy Star Apologizes To Gay Co-Star T.R. Knight

American network ABC has rebuked Grey's Anatomy star Isaiah Washington over an anti-gay comment he made backstage at the Golden Globe Awards.

Washington also responded to the growing controversy over his remark, issuing a public apology on Thursday to co-star T.R. Knight, and to the gay and lesbian community.

Washington used the word "faggot" in a press conference at the Golden Globes. He was denying using the term in a conflict with Knight that dated back to October.

Washington was criticized by the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, which wants a meeting to discuss "the destructive impact of these kinds of anti-gay slurs."

In his apology, Washington acknowledged using the term Monday night.

"I apologize to T.R., my colleagues, the fans of the show, and especially the lesbian and gay community for using a word that is unacceptable in any context or circumstance," he said.