‘House of Cards’ season 5 news: Release date, cast, plot – what we know so far

Netflix’s “House of Cards” creator and showrunner Beau Willimon will no longer be a part of the crew for the series upcoming season and beyond. Senior writers Melissa James Gibson and Frank Pugliese reportedly will now take his place as the show’s co-showrunners. “House of Cards” season 5 arrives May 30.

Gibson and Pugliese made an entry into the Netflix political drama “House of Cards” as writers in season 3. Gibson is credited with writing some of “The Americans” episodes. Pugliese on the other hand is known for his work on the European version of “Borgia” and the English series “Copper.”

On “House of Cards” season 5 cast, there seems little doubt about actor Kevin Spacey reprising his role as the nightmarish US president, Francis “Frank” Underwood. The same is for Robin Wright, who plays the equally evil Claire Underwood. Underwood is Frank’s wife and political aide in his quest for power.

Season 5 will also have some new faces Frank is going to rub shoulders with. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Patricia Clarkson and Campbell Scott will be joining the league for the fifth instalment of the web television series. Given Clarkson’s reputation as an Oscar nominee, it has been speculated she would make a strong adversary to Frank. No further details about their roles have been revealed yet.

Clarkson was seen in films like “Pieces of April,” “Good Night” and “Shutter Island.” Scott on the other hand is best known for his role in “Royal Pains,” and as Peter Parker’s father in “The Amazing Spiderman” films.

The plot for “House of Cards” season 5, much like the release date and cast details, has been kept under wraps. All that’s known for now is that some of the beloved characters from the previous seasons will no longer be seen in the fifth season. The same has been revealed by the recurring actor Michael Kelly, who plays trusted Underwood aide and lackey Doug Stamper.

“You lose characters that you love,” Kelly had said to Deadline. “We almost lost Frank, and I always have faith in the writers that no matter what road we go down, we’re going to come back to what the show is.”

Set in present-day Washington, DC, “House of Cards” follows the story of Frank Underwood, a Democrat from South Carolina’s 5th congressional district and House Majority Whip. It primarily deals with Underwood’s lust for greater power, aided by his wife, Claire. The series follows themes of ruthless pragmatism and manipulation of power.

“House of Cards” season 5 has been slated to release on May 30 in the US. Netflix has yet to announce a date for Australian viewers.