Knight auditioned for the show , expecting a one-season run . In 2007 , Knight 's co-star Isaiah Washington ( Preston Burke ) insulted him with a homophobic slur , which resulted in the termination of Washington 's '' Grey 's Anatomy '' contract . In 2009 , after the conclusion of the fifth season , it was confirmed that Knight would not be returning for the show 's sixth season . The actor stated the reason for his departure was due to a " breakdown in communication " with Rhimes , his character 's lack of screen time , as well as his decision to come out as openly gay . Knight received generally positive reviews for his performance as O'Malley , and garnered a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series at the 59th Primetime Emmy Awards . Despite this , his death received mixed feedback
59th Primetime Emmy Awards
59th Primetime Emmy Awards
George O'Malley