Let's put all the macho theatrics aside, assume that no one is going to be hustled off to rehab, and look at the alleged facts: Washington was said to be upset that some cast members were late for a scene. He said "something mean " to mild-mannered co-star T.R. Knight. Dempsey told Washington, "Pick on somebody your own size." So Washington did. He grabbed "Dr. McDreamy" by the throat and shoving him back (saying "disgusting things" along the way). When Knight screamed "break it up," Washington called him a "bitch" and stormed off to his trailer.

Washington, a former serious stage actor, is said to have "issues" and be upset that former Hollywood boy toy Dempsey is getting the magazine cover-boy treatment. And we thought everyone was jealous of Ellen Pompeo.

Stay tuned. Next they'll be pulling hair and wrestling in the swimming pool.