Actor Columbus Short has exited hit TV show Scandal following a series of legal woes in his personal life.

The 31 year old has been portraying Harrison Wright on the political drama since its launch in 2012, but he will not be joining co-star Kerry Washington and the rest of the cast for the forthcoming season four.

In a statement released on Friday (25Apr14), he writes, "At this time I must confirm my exit from a show I've called home for 3 years, with what is the most talented ensemble on television today.

"I would like to first thank (creator) Shonda Rhimes for the opportunity to work with such an amazing cast. Thank you GLADIATORS (Scandal fans), who have supported me throughout my entire career and of course to ABC and Shondaland (production companies) for allowing me to play such a pivotal role in the Scandal series.

"I have enjoyed every single minute of it. Everything must come to an end and unfortunately the time has come for Harrison Wright to exit the canvas. 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."

The news of his TV departure comes just two days after a California judge ordered him to permanently move out of the marital home he shared with his estranged wife Tanee McCall-Short after she accused him of threatening her life during a recent bust-up.

He is also facing trial for a charge of felony aggravated battery relating to a bloody bar brawl last month (Mar14).