Following last night’s episode of 9-1-1, Fox and 20th Century Television have confirmed that Rockmond Dunbar has officially departed from the hit series.
According to Variety, Dunbar was written off of the series after he refused to get vaccinated for COVID-19. The actor, who has played Michael Grant on 9-1-1, applied for religious and medical waivers to the requirement. But was denied. The series, which is produced by 20th Television, now requires all actors to be vaccinated for the virus.
20th Century Television issued a statement about the new COVID-19 vaccination protocols for sets. “We take the health and safety of all of our employees very seriously. And have implemented a mandatory vaccination confirmation process for those working in Zone A on our productions. In order to ensure a safer workplace for all, Zone A personnel who do not confirm their vaccination status and do not meet the criteria for exemption will not be eligible to work.”
Rockmond Dunbar Speaks Out About His Unexpected Departure From ‘9-1-1’
After news broke about his unexpected departure from 9-1-1, Rockmond Dunbar issued a statement about the vaccination protocol situation. “I applied for religious and medical accommodations pursuant to the law. And unfortunate [I] was denied by my employer,” Dunbar declared. He also said that his sincerely helped beliefs and private medical history are very intimate and personal aspects of his life.
“I do not publicly discuss [my beliefs and private medical history] and have no desire to start now,” the now-former 9-1-1 castmate stated. “I’ve been an actor in this business for 30 years. But my greatest roles are as a husband and father to our 4 small children.”
Dunbar then said as a man that walks in faith, he looks forward to what the future holds. “I have enjoyed the last five seasons [of 9-1-1] with this wonderful cast and crew. And [I] will cherish the time I’ve been blessed to spend with this season. [I] wish everyone involved nothing but the best.”
Prior to 9-1-1, Dunbar starred in various series, including Prison Break, The Path, The Game, The Mentalist, Sons of Anarchy, For Richer or Poorer, Terriers, Heartland, Soul Food, and Girlfriends.
The 9-1-1 alum recently just wrapped up production for the film Red Winter. The movie follows a couple who decide to go on a trip into the Colorado mountains. However, upon arriving at their location, they quickly learn they are far from solitude when the female main character Carla witnesses two cartel hitmen committing murder. She and her significant other Daniel just use their survival skills to ensure they survive.
Starring alongside Dunbar in the upcoming film are Doris Morgado, Nelson Bonilla, Alix Kermes, Vernon Davis, and Luis Da Silva Jr.
