Charlie Sheen: 'I have a lot of work to do'

Charlie Sheen Wednesday released a statement saying "I have a lot of work to do to be able to return the support I have received from so many people" - even as reports swirled that he would return to "Two and a Half Men" within weeks.

In his first statement since leaving the show last week after a reported drug-and-booze-fueled bender at his home, Sheen said that "Like Errol Flynn, who had to put down his sword on occasion, I just want to say, 'Thank you.' "

Sheen's absence has shut down production on the hit series. But various reports already have surfaced that he will be back within weeks. TMZ - which said Sheen had declined to enter rehab but instead remain at his home - reported Tuesday that Sheen was telling friends he would be back on set by March.

The New York Daily News Wednesday, citing confirmation by Sheen's publicist Stan Rosenfield, said he was "expected to return" by late February. Rosenfield did not respond to a call or e-mail message from Newsday, while spokesmen for CBS and Warner Brothers, which produces the series, declined to comment.

Meanwhile, Los Angeles Fire Department officials Wednesday released a 911 call in which a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon described Sheen as "very, very intoxicated" and in pain.

In the five-minute recording, Dr. Paul Nassif said he received a call from Sheen's residence and spoke with a secretary who sounded worried about the actor.

With AP