'House of Cards' season 5 release date, plot rumors update: Kevin Spacey to leave show?

"House of Cards" season 5 may be affected more by outside influences than in-story drama.YouTube/ Netflix US & Canada

Netflix's hit political-drama series "House of Cards" has faced several cancellation rumors due to the exit of the show's creator Beau Willimon. However, recent speculations suggest that the show will be back for its fifth season with a major character's death prepared for fans.

Due to the rumors that Kevin Spacey (who portrays Frank Underwood) might be leaving "House of Cards," fans have suspected that Frank Underwood might become the victim of an assassination in "House of Cards" season 5.

What's more is that if Frank does die this season, Robin Wright (who portrays Claire Underwood) might become the new lead of "House of Cards."

Many speculations suggest that his own wife will plan Frank's assassination in an attempt to take matters into her own hands. One thing that adds to this suspicion is the fact that Claire has a strong desire for power, and since she treats herself as Frank's equal, she makes for a capable suspect with a very clear motive.

However, even if Claire manages to get Frank out of her life, she will face a new challenge when it comes to the mysterious character who will be played by Patricia Clarkson.

On another note, despite rumors that Kevin Spacey is leaving the show, new cast members are also expected to be a part of "House of Cards" season 5. New cast members includes Clarkson and Campbell Scott. Both were confirmed to play major undisclosed characters in the hit political drama series when the show returns for season 5.

As of now, there is still no official date as to when "House of Cards" season 5 will be released.

There are also no official confirmations regarding the recently speculated plots that are said to occur in season 5. This means that fans might still see Frank Underwood for the rest of the season if the rumors about his alleged death aren't true.