Scandal

Columbus Short will NOT be returning to "Scandal" -- and sources connected with ABC says it's because the network decided to give him the axe over allegations of domestic violence.

Columbus just released this statement: "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 in television today."

Short goes on: "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..."

Short story ... it would appear Harrison ate the bullet that was aimed at him in the season finale.

TMZ broke the story ... Short's wife just got a restraining order against him after he allegedly put a knife to her throat and threatened to kill her. He's also been charged in connection with another incident with domestic violence and child abuse. He was arrested for yet another incident of alleged domestic abuse. And he was arrested recently for allegedly clocking a dude in a bar.

"Scandal" star Columbus Short is being allowed to return to his home -- after being banned from the premises for allegedly threatening to kill his wife -- but he won't have time to get comfortable ... a judge is giving Short just 2 hours at home to get his stuff ... and get out.

Short was in court today seeking permission to move back into his house after his wife obtained a restraining order, barring him from entering the home -- but a judge denied his request.

Instead, the judge gave Short 2 hours next Monday to go to the house and gather any belongings he needs ... and only with his attorney present.

TMZ broke the story ... Tanee Short got the restraining order, claiming Short had threatened to kill her during an explosive fight in their Chatsworth home April 7. Tanee claimed Short pinned her down, choked her, and threatened to stab her unless she admitted to having affairs.

She also claimed Short put a knife to her throat and threatened murder/suicide.

Columbus Short didn't have a care in the world as he hosted a "Scandal" party for the season finale ... which could also be his final episode -- since his character might be dead.

But based on his attitude ... Short is totally cool with possible unemployment and a ton of legal trouble.

Columbus Short told our photog, "I don't know what all the noise is about" ... referring to the rumor he may get fired from "Scandal" because he's being prosecuted for brutalizing his wife -- she even says he put a knife to her throat. But Columbus says, "Everything's great."

Short was in Hollywood last night where he hosted a "Scandal" finale (OMG!!!!!)) viewing party and also promoted his new song.

His "everything's great" line ignores the fact that he's being prosecuted for domestic violence and child abuse, his wife got a restraining order kicking him out of the house after alleging he threatened to kill her at knifepoint, she's filed for divorce, he was recently arrested for beating up a guy in a bar, he was arrested for another alleged domestic violence incident, and he pled no contest to assaulting a guy on a basketball court.

Columbus bailed on us Thursday ... agreeing to appear on TMZ Live and then pulling the plug at the last second.

He was quick to change the topic when we asked him about the big cliffhanger from last night (OMG!!!!!).