Since we've covered Scandal so closely here on S&A, given how popular that series was, fans should be aware that, as was announced on Friday, Henry Ian Cusick will not be returning to the hit ABC drama for Season 2.

No reason was given, but it was reported that the decision was mutually agreed on by the actor, who played Olivia Pope's womanizing right-hand man, and showrunner/creator/executive producer Shonda Rhimes.

They parting was said to be amicable.

I suppose it's not much of a loss, considering that he really didn't have a lot to do. Will you miss him? 

No word on whether he'll be replaced.

Although, maybe this other bit of news about the series might answer that question; Joshua Malina, who plays U.S. Attorney David Rosen on the series, has been promoted from recurring character in Season 1, to series regular next season. No reasons for that upgrade were given either, although it could be, as I suggested, that the loss of Cusick might be partly responsible.

It could also be that, as Shonda noted in a past interview, that there will indeed be the possibility of a new romance for Olivia Pope, and there was some suggestion that Rhimes might hook her up with David, since they *dance* well together, and it wouldn't be shocking to learn that they actually had a little something going on in their past lives.

So an upgrade might be a hint of what's to come for next season… or not.

We'll just have to wait to find out.