More characters are joining the rumble in the final season of ABC's political drama thriller "Scandal." According to the latest reports, season 7 will introduce "Breaking Bad" actor Dean Norris to the series, although his role in the life of the show's main character Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington) is still shrouded in mystery.
As reported by TV Line, the former "Breaking Bad" cast member will appear in "Scandal" season 7 in a recurring role. There are no further details given regarding the background of Norris' character in the show. Nevertheless, the mystery surrounding his role increases the viewers' anticipation for the final chapter, especially with a teaser photo revealing Norris' unnamed character attending the newly-elected U.S. President Mellie Grant's (Bellamy Young) first state dinner. His role may also have something to do with Cyrus (Jeff Perry), as the two characters are seen chatting at the dinner in the teaser photo.
Aside from Norris, "Scandal" season 7 is welcoming other new cast members, including actors Jay Hernandez and Shaun Toub who appeared in "Nashville" and "Homeland," respectively. Just like Norris, the roles to be portrayed by Hernandez and Toub are unknown.
Meanwhile, Washington teased about the future of her character Olivia Pope as "Scandal" culminates with its seventh and final season. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, the actress said that Olivia's future decisions will reveal more about her real character. It has yet to be confirmed if Olivia has been fully corrupted by the power she is currently enjoying, especially that she has finally set foot in the White House.
"I do believe in the saying that fame doesn't change you, it reveals who you are, so that's a lot of what this season has been," Washington stated. Aside from Olivia's growing influence inside the White House, the fans cannot help but wonder if the character's romantic relationship with Fitz (Tony Goldwyn) will be end-game in the final season.
To answer the speculations about the two, "Scandal" showrunner Shonda Rimes said in an interview that the viewers should not expect so much about Olivia and Fitz's relationship.
A happy ending with Olivia and Fitz getting back together is not even guaranteed, given that their relationship has been very complicated from the very start. There might be little chance for the characters to end up together, especially now that they are living separate lives, with Olivia working as presidential chief of staff and Fitz choosing to live a quiet life away from politics after stepping down as the president.
"Scandal" season 7 will premiere on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 9 p.m. EDT on ABC.
